Welcome to Roseburg / Douglas County & Vicinity
Roseburg was originally named Deer Creek, as it is at the junction of Deer Creek and South Umpqua River. It was changed to Roseburgh in 1857 and to its current version, Roseburg in 1894. Roseburg was voted the county seat in 1854. Roseburg got its name after its founder, Aaron Rose, who settled the town in 1851. Rose's house became the first roadside Inn in the area.
In August 1959, the inhabitants of Roseburg were shaken by a huge explosion in the early hours of the morning. The Gerretsen Building Supply Co, caught fire and soon firefighters began to extinquish the fire. Coincidently and unknown to the firefighters and the sleepy townspeople, a truck was parked in front of the fire engulfed building filled with two tons of dynamite and 4 1/2 tons of blasting agent. When the truck exploded, the blast destroyed buildings in an 8 block radius and damaged 30 more blocks. 14 people were killed and 125 injured and caused 10 to 12 million dollars in damage. The downtown was rebuilt primarily from insurance claims. The incident is known as the "Roseburg Blast"
Roseburg is also one of the towns on the route of the Applegate Trail opened in 1846. The Applegate Trail was used by settlers until the mid-1880's to reach the Oregon Territory and to avoid the pitfalls of the Oregon Trail along the Columbia River route. From the mill to the VA hospital, Roseburg is a unique community with the small town feel and all the amenities of a city. It’s mild climate boasts many days of sunny blue skies and mild winters. Situated in the '100 Valleys of the Umpqua', residents experience wildlife and beautiful scenery just out their back doors. The Umpqua River starts high in the Cascade mountains and winds its way through Douglas County to empty into the ocean at Winchester Bay.
Looking for a mountain or river retreat? You will find cabins and riverside homes in abundance in Douglas County. These properties require a special understanding of the area and construction practices used. Whether you are looking for your first home or a home away from home, let Inspections Unlimited help you make an informed decision about your personal retreat.