Waconda, Oregon facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Waconda
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Former Oregon Electric substation at Waconda
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 Waconda
Location in Oregon
Waconda
Location in the United States
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| Country | United States |
| State | Oregon |
| County | Marion |
| Elevation | 177 ft (54 m) |
| Time zone | UTC-8 (Pacific (PST)) |
| • Summer (DST) | UTC-7 (PDT) |
Waconda is a small, historic community in Marion County, Oregon, in the United States. It's located near where River Road NE and Waconda Road NE meet, in an area called the French Prairie. Even though it's not a big city, Waconda has an interesting past!
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Exploring Waconda's History
Waconda and the Oregon Electric Railway
Waconda used to be an important stop on the Oregon Electric Railway. This railroad was built through the area in 1907. A few years later, in 1912, Waconda even got its own post office!
Before this, there was another community named Waconda, established in 1870, about a mile south of Gervais. That older community was on a different railroad line, the Oregon and California Railroad.
Where Did the Name Come From?
The name "Waconda" might come from a Native American word, "Wakonda". This word means something special or sacred. Waconda was one of several stops on the Oregon Electric Railway that had Native American names. For example, a station to the south was named for a Chinookan leader named Comcomly. The next station to the north was named for a Kalapuyan "Chief" named Quinaby.
Life in Early Waconda
In 1915, Waconda was a small but active place. It had a store and about 40 people living there. There's still a house standing near where the old Oregon Electric station used to be. This house, built in a style called American Foursquare, once served as the community's post office.
What Grows Here?
The land around Waconda is very good for farming. Farmers in this area grow many different crops. Some of the main things they grow include hops, which are used to make beer. They also grow lots of berries and other fruits. Dairy products, like milk and cheese, are also produced here.
