Union is the second largest city in Union County, and was once the county seat.
There was, in fact, a rivalry between Union and La Grande that lasted from their
founding well into the early part of the twentieth century. The towns were of
similar size and vied actively for the county seat and the locating of the railroad
within their communities. When La Grande obtained the railroad, the growth in Union
slowed while La Grande mushroomed.
Today Union is a community with a rich historic past and beautiful heritage.
The downtown core presents ample evidence of a wealthy past exemplified by elegant Victorian homes
that grace the tree-lined city streets. Main Street was recently designated a National Historic
District, honoring the city's history and fine brick architecture. The Union County Museum, a
Carnegie library, and the restored Historic Union Hotel are community highlights.
Catherine Creek State Park is a few miles beyond Union on Oregon Highway 203.
Fishing is good in the crystal clear waters of Catherine Creek and a hiking trail provides a pleasant
walk in the woods and mountaintop views. Camping and day use facilities are available in a beautiful
forest setting beside the tumbling river. Ports of entry to the Eagle Cap Wilderness are located nearby.
Day hikers, backpackers and horseback riders enjoy outstanding scenery and may view a wide variety
of wildlife on the trails.
For the avid golfer, Buffalo Peak Golf Course provides a very
challenging game on a scenic 18-hole course.
A former community near Union called Telocaset is the exact geographic
center -- north to south and east to west -- of the fifty United States.
