Ward Memorial Park — Attraction in Middleton

Alexander Ward's party were heading to Polk County, Oregon to homestead near his brother James' family. James is my many times removed Great Grandfather. James adopted the two surviving boys (his nephews) of this attack. My father grew up on the family farm in Independence Oregon. I grew up in Pendleton, but have lived in the lower treasure valley for the last 20 years. I visit this park often just to sit. Drop some knowledge...

So the park itself is simple. The only thing besides a brief historical description is the monument for the victims of the massacre. However, close your eyes and imagine the scene of terror that unfolded for the Ward family. Think of the anger that motivated the Natives to feel the need to go to war. This park is more about reflection than the...

This is a very moving memorial where on August 20 1854 a group of 20 were heading down the Oregon trail were ambushed and only 2 boys survived the massacre. The army ran down the Indians and killed them all. Once the gold rush started with all the new people heading this way to find gold and more military headed that way the killings pretty...