February 27, 2020 3:35 a.m.
The Local Roots Genealogy Series continues Thursday night at the Roseburg Public Library.
Al Helgeson will present a history of what is currently called Dole Road, which begins at Myrtle Creek and proceeds as far as Roberts Creek. The road was started as part of the Scott-Applegate Trail and grew into part of the military and stage road which was the principal north-south road west of the Cascades, until the Pacific Highway, now known as Highway 99, replaced it in 1920.
Helgeson will also discuss the history of the community that was known as Oak Grove, Ruckles and finally, Dole, including its involvement with the stage lines, the railroad and the people who lived there.
Helgeson is a longtime resident of the county, and lives in the 150-year old Pitzer Smith House at Ruckles, which was purchased by his parents in 1943. He is the vice president of the South Umpqua Historical Society.
The talk will begin at 6:30 p.m. Call the Roseburg Public Library for more information.