Does this mean that nothing is available? No, it doesn't mean that at all. Does it mean that if something is in the archives in a "closed" year, we can't get a copy of it? No, it doesn't mean that either.

What it means is that we have to be more resourceful than folks who are researching certain other states' records. By searching the State Archives' online listings, you will see what records are available through the state. Oregon was the first state to implement an online records system like this. It's a fairly advanced system, so we are very lucky that way. You can even order documents online, by email, and have them mailed to you with an invoice. Also shown below is the URL for the site containing a complete inventory of the State's holdings, and another specifically stating the State's and County's combined holdings for Wasco County records. However, when you use their search engine online, you get only the State holdings, and only those that are "unrestricted." This is only part of what is available to researchers, so don't be fooled.

If you are seeking a record that is not listed at the automated site, that doesn't mean it doesn't exist. It also doesn't mean it is off-limits to you. Some records that are held at the State but classified as "restricted" records due to the various applicable time limits can still be obtained by a direct descendant or next of kin of the person whose record it is. You may have to prove lineage as well as to provide proof that the person in that record is now deceased or incompetent. Those types of records are the types and dates that are listed in the inventory but are not being reported individually at the automated site. The State Archives also has the "Cumulative Index to Death Records" for Catholics of the Pacific Northwest from 1838-1911, so don't miss that one if your ancestors were Catholic!

If the State inventory listings do not contain the years or type of the document you seek, then you will need to contact the county courthouse or the Wasco County Public Library.  They only have snail mail, however, as neither is yet online. There is a marvelous collection of materials there, including complete marriage indexes through 1914. The librarian will be happy to do lookups for anyone who asks, free of charge. She only asks that you make a donation to the Friends of the Library for copies she makes for you on their copier. She's a wonderful lady who seems to have a great knowledge of Wasco County's history. However, she is only one person, so please keep your requests reasonable. Go at it a piece at a time. 

For access to private collections that have been donated for genealogical use (these are often goldmines, so don't miss 'em), as well as to request "regular" lookups, you might want to contact the Columbia Gorge Genealogy Society. This is a group with some real "go-getters" in it (they've contributed a lot of work to gather information for this site, and I frequently refer people to them for lookups & cemetery searches). They charge a small fee to do lookups for non-members; there is no fee to do lookups for members. Membership cost is about equal to the cost of 7.5 lookups, so you really can't lose by becoming a member. They ask little and give much. 

Folks with ancestors who lived in the part of the county south of Dufur will not want to miss the Southern Wasco Co. Library. It's a treasure trove of both public records and private collections that were donated for patron use. I hear tell they have a pretty fantastic collection of old photos, and their close ties to the old-timers of the area have helped them to identify many people and places in those old photos over the years. They don't have a website yet, but you can contact them via email.

We also have easy access to some generous individuals who are associated with the area south of Friend. The areas that are nearest and dearest to their hearts are listed below with each person's name and contact info. These are also the people you need to call to obtain information about the museums and Historical Societies in each of their named areas. Each has graciously allowed us to post their contact info at this site, strictly for your ease in contacting them. We would appreciate it if you would express your appreciation for that generosity, if you should happen to contact them.

Don't miss the Discovery Center, which is the official Interpretive Center for the Columbia Gorge, as well as its sister operations, the Wasco Co. Museum and old Ft. Dalles. All are run as cooperative ventures of several historical and genealogical groups mentioned on this page. Those groups also include the Wasco Co. Pioneer Association, which holds a reunion/celebration the first Saturday each May.

And don't forget that the folks at the LDS Family History Center for any area you are researching, usually have a pretty nice collection of microfilm records for that area. You do not need to be Mormon (LDS) to utilize this great resource, and the folks who work there are quite knowledgeable about their holdings. Wasco County's FHC has a surprisingly large collection of local films and books.