Living History

The Living History program has educated children on the rich cultural heritage of Dorris Ranch, Springfield, and Lane County for more than 30 years. This program offers hands-on, immersive interpretive experiences that bring to life the experiences of adults and children who lived and worked on the property that is now Dorris Ranch.

Group Tours

Sign up your child in advance for a two-hour field trip or tour to learn about Oregon history at Dorris Ranch. All curriculum is built and in alignment with current State of Oregon Common Core Standards, including Tribal History/Shared History. 

Field Trips

Pioneer Homestead field trip: Experience the life of an Oregon Trail immigrant at the Masterson homestead. Step back in time to 1852, when William, Eliza, and their five young children settled their donation land claim on what was to become Dorris Ranch. Visit their log cabin, help tend crops, grind grain, bake cornbread, split firewood, pump water, and more. 

People of the Land field trip: Who lived in the Willamette Valley before us? During this educational tour, students experience the lives of Kalapuya people, Hudson's Bay Company trappers, and Oregon Trail pioneers. Learn about the traditional hunting and cooking methods of the Kalapuya. Visit the trading post and view furs. Lend a hand at the pioneer cabin.

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Pricing

  • 1-15 students, $100 in-district or $120 out-of-district
  • 16-30 students, $150 in-district or $180 out-of-district
  • 31-45 students, $200 in-district or $240 out-of-district

Current Availability for Field Trips

The blank dates in this calendar are available.