Tales of the Past: Small outpost springs up in Southeast Harney County

Fields, Oregon, is located about 50 miles southeast of Frenchglen, between the Steens Mountains and the Pueblo Mountains. It is near the Oregon/Nevada state line in a sparsely settled ranching region. Charles M. Fields filed a homestead claim in 1881 near this site along what became known as Fields Creek. He patented his claim on July 29, 1891. He established a stage station at the site to serve as a rest stop along the old stage road between Burns, Oregon, and Winnemucca, Nevada. Fields built a stone house that stood for many years. A school was established about 1900.

Fields sold his business to John Smyth in 1911. Smyth eventually remodeled the old stone house and a horse barn. A post office was established at the station on Aug. 9, 1913, and Smyth recommended it be named for Charles Fields. Oliver McCarty was the first postmaster. The post office was discontinued in 1954 but re-established in 1969.

The station site continued to provide a stop for travelers and a supply site for local ranchers. A store and restaurant was later established and has operated for several years. The two-room school continues to operate with about eight students for grades 1-8. High school students go to Crane Oregon High School, which is a lengthy distance away.

The road to Fields from Frenchglen was a graveled road for many years but has been paved. It has a gas station, store, bar and a café that is a favorite for sportsmen and recreationists visiting Steens Mountain or the hot springs on the east side of the mountain. There are a few small cabins for rent. It has become famous for its milkshakes and hamburgers. It is certainly a must stop for travelers in this remote region.