Welcome to Cross Hollows, a place steeped in the rich history of Eastern Oregon. Known today as Shaniko, this location has witnessed a fascinating evolution over the years. Cross Hollows was initially established in the post-Civil War era by a German immigrant named August Scherneckau. He settled here and, in 1879, became the area’s first postmaster, with the post office officially named Cross Hollows due to the local topography.
By the late 19th century, Cross Hollows was more than just a postal stop; it was a hub for stagecoaches traveling between The Dalles and central Oregon. As such, it played a vital role in bridging communication and trade routes in the region. In the early 1900s, the area around Cross Hollows transformed significantly. The arrival of the Columbia Southern Railway in 1900 marked a turning point, as it connected this remote area with larger markets, primarily for wool.
Shaniko, as it became known, quickly earned the nickname ‘Wool Capital of the World’ due to its massive wool production, which was transported via the railway. This boom period saw the construction of many significant buildings, including the Shaniko Hotel and the expansive wool warehouses, some of the largest of their time in Oregon.
The town’s prosperity, however, was short-lived. By 1911, the completion of the Oregon Trunk Railway, which bypassed Shaniko, led to a decline in its economic significance. Additionally, fires in 1910 and 1911 devastated much of the town’s business district, further accelerating its decline.
Today, Shaniko stands as a near ghost town, but its historical significance as a once-thriving trade center remains a point of interest for visitors. The old structures, including the schoolhouse and water tower, offer a glimpse into the past and are popular subjects for photographers and history enthusiasts alike.
