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Mitchell Monument Historic Site
Mitchell Monument, 30 minutes northeast of Bly, Oregon, is a unique historic place to visit because it is the only location in the continental United States where Americans were killed as the result of enemy action during World War II. On May 5, 1945, Archie Mitchell's pregnant wife and five children found and accidentally detonated a Japanese balloon bomb, killing them all. Mitchell was parking the car and was not injured.
A stone monument with a bronze plaque listing the names of the victims is located at the spot where the bomb exploded. Facilities include picnic tables, campfire rings, and one vault toilet.
Read more about the Monument in the printable brochure.
At a Glance
| Current Conditions: | (Bly Ranger District) |
|---|---|
| Reservations: | First come, first served. |
| Fees: | No fee |
| Open Season: | 05/15 - 09/15 |
| Usage: | Light |
| Closest Towns: | Bly, OR; Lakeview, OR |
| Water: | No |
| Restroom: | Vault Toilet (1) |
| Operated By: | Forest Service |
| Information Center: | Bly Ranger District |
General Information
Directions:Mitchell Monument Historical Site is located 30 minutes northeast of Bly, OR.
From Bly, OR take Oregon Highway 140 east toward Lakeview, turning left on County Road 1259. County 1259 is formally known as Campbell Road. Follow County Road 1259 north, and then turn right on Forest Service Road 34 to Mitchell Monument Historic Site.
Activities
River and Stream Fishing
Day Hiking
Horse Riding
Viewing Wildlife
Viewing Plants
Interpretive Areas
Picnicking
Highlights
Location