At Christmastime in 1885, Medford had about 100 buildings and 400 people. On the other hand, the railroad had spurred growth in Ashland, which had a population of about 1,000. The Rogue River Valley had just begun its fruit industry, shipping apples, pears, and peaches to buyers on the other side of the mountains. Phoenix was producing cider and jelly from orchard waste.
Byers Hall put up two Christmas trees on Christmas Eve. The hall was packed and everyone enjoyed the program and presents under those trees. Santa Claus delivered a package of candy to everyone. A magician and ventriloquist, T. Shattuck, provided entertainment.
The biggest party was on Christmas night when 90 people attended a ball to raise money for a new school house. There was music by Wilson’s stringed quadrille band, and the Empire Hotel prepared a dinner.
On New Year’s Eve there was another dance, followed the next day by two horse races. There were several purses for the races, all won by Mr. Miles.
Sources: Truwe, Ben. Southern Oregon History, Revised. Web. 24 Nov. 2014. http://id.mind.net/~truwe/tina/s.o.history.html>.
