Another cache in one of Bends parks. This park was donated to the district by Dean and Lily Hollinshead, this former working ranch retains much of its original pioneer charm. Located in northeast Bend, the park features several original outbuildings including the renovated Hollinshead Barn and the Share Croppers House, now a museum. Park amenities include an off-leash dog park, community garden and picnicking. The park is also the location of the community garden managed by OSU Extension. There is an off-leash dog area (not fenced) on north side of park. Much of the park is open fields and an orchard. A portable toilet is on site. The park and barn are popular locations for weddings and other private functions.
James W Matson was a share-cropper for Dean Hollinshead starting in 1937. He and his family lived in the Share Croppers House at Hollinshead Park, which is now a museum. Caring for many acres, he grew seed crops and potatoes as well as raised a dairy herd, beef cattle and hogs. When Matson’s brothers came home from WWII, they worked on the farm too, helping clear the land and harvest crops. The Bunk House, originally built in the 1920s, has served many purposes over the years. Matson’s brothers and other workers used it for sleeping quarters and it also housed Matson’s Model A Ford (driven all the way from Kansas) in a corner. Much-needed farm buggies and wagons were stored under a lean-to on the east side and a harness room was located in another corner. Dean Hollinshead spent many hours in the harness room, working on horse gear, arranging buckles, hooks, tools and stirrups as well as sharing stories by the woodstove with friends. In 2009, Park Services re-roofed the building and in 2011 staff completely renovated the interior and exterior adding electricity, insulation and heat. Numerous Hollinshead historical items are on display here and now the building is an addition to the museum.
There is a nice parking lot for the park and also a small parking lot close to this cache. The cache is a small log only cache so don't forget to bring your writing stick to sign the log. As always replace the cache as it was found and have a great cache day.
Congratulations to Slow&Velvet on the FTF