In the lands of Tututni and the Shasta, a wild rugged river flowed between pioneers and fortune seekers and their holy land of gold.

That river fast, deep and wide kept them stuck on one side till Davis Evans made way to cross them all for pay.

Buck 50 for a wagon and a nickel for a sheep.

To ferry across that river, the price became quite steep.

In the year of 1851, a pioneer and his son waded in the river wide to avoid that costly ride.

Swinging so tightly to the old mare's tail, his son held that of the colt.

The man crossed that mighty wild river, then the place was called Tailholt.

As the next 20 years flew, the town took shape and grew.

With a hotel, livery and mill, Tailholt became Woodville.

To honor first postmaster, John Woods was his name, the Waldorf hotel keeper where many travelers came.

The name Woodville the town bore for a long 40 years or more When citizens held a vote to rename and promote So the native place was renamed once more hoping tourists to deliver.

Once Tailholt, then Woodville was to be called the city of Rogue River.

Rogue River.

Southern Oregon Experience, stories from our region's history.