Modoc Point, Oregon facts for kids
Modoc Point is a small, unincorporated community located in Klamath County, Oregon, in the United States. It sits right on the edge of Upper Klamath Lake, a large freshwater lake, and is found along U.S. Route 97. An "unincorporated community" means it's a group of homes and businesses that isn't officially a city or town with its own local government.
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What is Modoc Point?
Modoc Point is known for its beautiful location by Upper Klamath Lake. It's a quiet spot in Oregon, often visited by people who enjoy nature and the outdoors. The community is named after a special place nearby, a prominent point of land that juts out into the lake.
Where is Modoc Point Located?
Modoc Point is situated in the southern part of Oregon. It's in Klamath County, which is known for its lakes, forests, and mountains. The community is right on the shore of Upper Klamath Lake, one of the biggest lakes in Oregon. U.S. Route 97, a major highway, passes right through the area.
What Kind of Place is Modoc Point?
As an unincorporated community, Modoc Point doesn't have a mayor or a city council. Instead, it's part of the larger Klamath County. People who live there rely on the county for services like roads and public safety. It's a peaceful place, perfect for those who like living close to nature.
The Story Behind the Name
The name "Modoc Point" has an interesting history. It connects to both the natural landscape and the people who lived there long ago. The community and its post office got their name from the actual Modoc Point, a significant land feature on the lake.
From Lelu to Modoc Point
The Modoc Point post office first opened in 1916. Before that, in 1911, the Southern Pacific Railroad had already built a train station in the same spot. This station was originally named "Lelu." However, in 1916, the railroad changed the station's name to "Modoc Point" to match the new post office.
Who Was Chief Lelu?
The original name "Lelu" came from Chief Lelu. He was an important leader of the Native American people in the area. Chief Lelu was one of the people who signed the Treaty with the Klamath, etc. on October 14, 1864. This treaty was an agreement between the United States government and several Native American tribes, including the Klamath and Modoc people. The name "Lelu" itself was a slightly changed version of the French words le loup, which mean "the gray wolf."
