Florence

     This sunny scene of the Siuslaw River, spanned by a double leaf bascule bridge, catches a riverside glimpse of Florence. The 1500 foot long Siuslaw River Bridge opens up to allow river traffic to pass. Housing its draw bridge machinery in four Art Deco style obelisks, the 1930s bridge adds a touch of historic character to the turn of the century town. Located near the midpoint along Oregon's coastline, Florence grew from the commercial traffic on the Siuslaw River.
      The area was first inhabited by Siuslaw Indians, and Spanish explorers were first Europeans to visit. Rich in lumber and Pacific fisheries, this coastal region of Oregon attracted Anglo settlers during the mid 19th century. By 1900, the town boasted a population of 300.
      Today's Florence, billed as the City of Rhododendron, has restored its historic district, offering visitors a look at century old antique shops, restaurants, art boutiques and coffee houses. The Kyle Building, built in 1901, houses the town's most interesting mercantile store.
     Florence lies adjacent to the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area. These coastal sand dunes stretch southward for 40 miles to Coos Bay, making the largest expanse of coastal dunes in America. These massive cream-colored mounds are best viewed from the Eel Creek Campground. To the north of Florence, Heceta Head is the site of one of the most photographed lighthouses on the Oregon coast.

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