ABOUT ELGIN

ELGIN OPERA HOUSE

In 1911, to sever the close proximity of a house of ill repute, Elgin’s city leaders built a new city hall that would serve the function of city government & performing arts center. This two-story, colonial revival brick structure was completed with decorative metal cornice & pilasters flanking the entrance, at a cost of $15,000.

Elgin High School’s graduating class of 1912 holds the distinction of the first performance. During the dedication ceremony on July 4th, Walter M. Pierce of Hot Lake (later governor of Oregon), delivered an elaborate oration to a record crowd.

At its dedication, the Opera House was lauded as one of the finest because of its sharp acoustics & slanted seating arrangement. It was complete with plush draperies, box seats, an orchestra pit, elaborate backdrops, & a rococo decor.

The Opera House has been renovated & features its original motif. The architectural beauty & historic background of the building made it a natural addition to the National Register of Historic Buildings. It's also home to the performing arts group Friends of the Opera House & many community events are scheduled at the Opera House. The Opera House Theater shows movies & noted performers are scheduled throughout the year.

Sit back & enjoy the sights & sounds of a ride on the Eagle Cap Excursion Train, located in the beautiful northeast corner of Oregon. They offer scenic trips beside the Grande Ronde & Wallowa Rivers. Journey back in time on a section of the picturesque & historic Joseph Branch rail line & discover untamed territory as the train follows the Grande Ronde River through rugged cliffs & timbered ridges, then travels up the Wild & Scenic Wallowa River.

Whether you're a rail fan, a nature & wildlife enthusiast, a history buff, or a vacationer looking for a fun & relaxing way to enjoy the spectacular beauty of the region, a ride on the Eagle Cap Excursion Train is sure to please!

The train operates from the Elgin Depot at 300 Depot St, in Elgin, Oregon. The depot was built in 2012 in the style of the original historic depot. It contains a gift shop, ticket office, & historical railroad artifacts & is open to visitors before train rides & on a varying schedule during the season.

Please call (541) 437-3652 to speak with the depot attendant. Please leave a message or call the number provided. During the excursion season, the depot is open Tue. – Sat., 10am - 2pm. Entire passenger cars can be reserved or charter the whole train for special events.

ABOUT ELGIN

ELGIN OPERA HOUSE

EAGLE CAP TRAIN

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