Longview Ranch: Restoring A Piece of Oregon History

In the summer of 2020, the team at Longview Ranch took on a labor of love — the restoration of a century-old home along Oregon’s John Day River. What began as a necessary rescue quickly became a passion project to preserve a small but meaningful part of Oregon’s ranching history.

The house, now known as The River House, was designed by the same builder who created the iconic Cant Ranch house located just up the road in the John Day River National Park. Like its famous counterpart, the River House holds stories of the region’s early settlers, craftsmanship, and life along one of Oregon’s most scenic waterways.

Unfortunately, time had not been kind to this historic home. Built directly on dirt with no foundation, the River House had sunk more than eight inches along its outer walls. Rotting boards, water damage, and settling had taken their toll, leading some to question whether the structure could even be saved.

But at Longview Ranch, restoration runs deep in our values. Rather than tearing the home down, the team decided to bring it back to life — carefully, section by section. Over the following months, the house was lifted and leveled. New sheetrock, flooring, wiring, and a modern heating and cooling system were installed. Fresh paint brightened the once-tired walls, giving the home a renewed sense of warmth and comfort.

Today, the River House stands strong once again — a cozy guest home that honors its past while embracing the comforts of the present. With its peaceful setting along the John Day River and its deep historical roots, it’s more than just a restored building; it’s a living reminder of Oregon’s enduring spirit of craftsmanship, care, and connection to the land.

For visitors who stay at Longview Ranch, the River House offers a chance to step back in time — to experience a place where history, nature, and modern hospitality come together. It’s a reflection of everything the ranch stands for: preservation, stewardship, and pride in the Oregon way of life.

At Longview Ranch, we believe in preserving the stories that came before us — and ensuring they’ll be here for generations to come. The River House is proof that, with enough heart and hard work, history can have a beautiful second act.