High Desert Museum

Since it's a Sunday and we have a short drive day scheduled we take some time to see the High Desert Museum just south of Bend, Oregon. The heat is building up and the thought of a nice air conditioned museum is also appealing (us coastal dwellers are not used to hot weather).

I get a bear hug from Smokey

Smokey's fire truck

We start off with the exhibits covering early peoples in the high desert.

Native American boat made from Tule reeds

Example of lean-to probably used by Lewis & Clark

The clothes early explorers and pioneers wore were practical, but not as comfortable as what we have now.

Hobnail boots instead of Vibram soles

Volunteer demos a sun bonnet instead of SPF 50

Spurs instead of an accelerator pedal

Gold and silver discoveries brought in all kinds of miners and the various trades that went with mining activities (both legitimate and not). Surprisingly Wells Fargo got it's start transporting bullion, then started carrying passengers, and only afterwards expanded into banking.

Peter turns in gold for cash

Not as comfy as the IQ

The high desert is home to all kinds of critters - some not too friendly.

A mean looking rattlesnake

This snapping turtle can easily take a finger to two off

Of course there are fish to be found in the streams and lakes.

Uhmmm... dinner!

The main mammal on display is a 15 year old river otter, named Thomas. We were fascinated by how easily he moved both on land of course through the water.

Romping through the grass

Swimming in his pool (notice blue iridescence from trapped bubbles in his fur)

This sculpture of a mare & foal is made of barbed wire

The Native American exhibits were small, but very interesting, especially after just having seen Tule Lake.

Tee Pee made from Tule reeds

A modern Jingle dress (quite heavy)

Legendary headdresses for Chiefs

As we leave we are thankful to be returning to our comfortable IQ rather than driving one of these old Model T's.

Model T + gas pump of the era