Baker County was established from part of Wasco County and named after Colonel Edward D. Baker, a U.S. Senator from Oregon. A Union officer and close friend of President Lincoln, Colonel Baker was the only member of Congress to die in the Civil War. He was killed at Ball’s Bluff, Virginia. Auburn, which no longer exists, was the first county seat. Baker City became the county seat in 1868 and was incorporated in 1874.

Before 1861, the majority of immigrants only paused in Baker County on their way west, unaware of its vast agricultural and mineral resources. Then the great gold rush began, and Baker County became one of the Northwest’s largest gold producers. Farming, ranching, logging and recreation have become the chief economic bases for an area that displays spectacular scenery, including the world’s deepest gorge Hells Canyon; an outstanding museum with the famous Cavin-Walfel rock​ collection; and numerous historic buildings with interesting architectural features.