Pendleton: The Heartbeat of Cowboy Culture

• HelloHowdy
  [haw-dee]
• GoodbyeSee ya
  [see yuh]
• YesYup
  [yuhp]
• NoNope
  [nohp]
• Please/You're welcomePlease/You're welcome
  [pleez/yur welcome]
• Thank youThanks
  [thanks]
• Excuse me/SorryPardon me
  [par-dun me]
• How are you?Howdy
  [haw-dee]
• Fine. And you?Fine. And you?
  [fine. and yuh?]
• Do you speak English?You speak English?
  [yoo speak ing-glish?]
• I don't understandI don't get it
  [eye don't get it]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I see the menu, please
  [ken eye see the menu, pleez]
• I don't eat meatI don't eat meat
  [eye don't eat meet]
• Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseI'll pay now, please
  [eye'll pay now, pleez]

• Help!Help!
  [help!]
• Go away!Go away!
  [go away!]
• Call the Police!Call the cops!
  [call the cops!]
• Call a doctor!Get a doc!
  [get uh doc!]
• I'm lostI'm lost
  [eye'm lost]
• I'm illI'm sick
  [eye'm sick]

• I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
  [eye wanna buy...]
• I'm just lookingJust browsing
  [just brow-zing]
• How much is it?How much?
  [how much?]
• That's too expensiveToo pricey
  [too pry-see]
• Can you lower the price?Can you do better?
  [can yoo do bet-ter?]

• What time is it?What time is it?
  [what time is it?]
• It's one o'clockIt's one
  [its one]
• Half past (10)Half past ten
  [half past ten]
• MorningMorning
  [morn-ing]
• AfternoonAfternoon
  [after-noon]
• EveningEvening
  [even-ing]
• YesterdayYesterday
  [yes-ter-day]
• TodayToday
  [to-day]
• TomorrowTomorrow
  [to-mor-row]
• 1One
  [wun]
• 2Two
  [too]
• 3Three
  [three]
• 4Four
  [four]
• 5Five
  [fahyv]
• 6Six
  [siks]
• 7Seven
  [sev-un]
• 8Eight
  [ayt]
• 9Nine
  [nain]
• 10Ten
  [ten]

• Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [wheres the...?]
• What's the address?What's the address?
  [whats the address?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Can you show me (on the map)?
  [can yoo show me (on the map)?]
• When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [whens the next (bus)?]
• A ticket (to ....)One ticket (to ....)
  [wun ticket (to ....)]

Pendleton was established in 1868 and named after George H. Pendleton, an Ohio senator known for his advocacy of civil service reform. The town quickly became a key trading post for miners, ranchers, and settlers moving westward.

Pendleton lies near the path of the historic Oregon Trail, a 2,170-mile route used by pioneers traveling to the Pacific Northwest during the mid-1800s. The town served as a critical rest stop for weary travelers seeking supplies and respite.

Founded in 1909, Pendleton Woolen Mills became renowned for its quality woolen products, particularly its intricate Native American-inspired blankets. The mill remains a cornerstone of the local economy and a symbol of the town's textile heritage.

First held in 1910, the Pendleton Round-Up is one of the most famous rodeos in the United States. Every September, this event draws thousands of visitors to experience traditional rodeo events, parades, and a deep dive into Western culture.

Pendleton is located on lands historically inhabited by the Cayuse, Umatilla, and Walla Walla tribes. The Tamástslikt Cultural Institute, located just outside the city, offers exhibits and programs that celebrate and preserve the rich cultural heritage of these tribes.

During the Prohibition era in the 1920s, Pendleton was notorious for its speakeasies and underground bars. Many of these establishments were hidden beneath the town's streets, contributing to Pendleton's reputation for lawlessness and revelry.

The Blue Mountain Scenic Byway, which begins near Pendleton, offers travelers stunning views of the Blue Mountains and the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest. This route has historical significance as it was used by early settlers and traders navigating the rugged terrain.

Pendleton's underground tunnels, originally built for storage and to house illicit activities during the Prohibition era, are now a popular tourist attraction. The Pendleton Underground Tours provide a glimpse into this secretive part of the town's history.

During World War II, Pendleton was home to a significant airbase. The Pendleton Field, now known as Eastern Oregon Regional Airport, played a crucial role in training pilots and supporting military operations in the Pacific Theater.

Today, Pendleton is a vibrant community that honors its rich history while embracing modern advancements. The city's historic downtown features preserved buildings that house art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants, reflecting a blend of old-world charm and contemporary culture.

Pendleton, Oregon is accessible by several means of transportation. The nearest major airport is the Eastern Oregon Regional Airport, located about 5 miles northwest of Pendleton. For those driving, Pendleton is situated along Interstate 84, making it convenient for road trips. Greyhound and other bus services also offer routes to Pendleton from various locations.

Pendleton is a relatively small city, making it easy to navigate on foot or by bike. For longer distances, local taxi services and ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft are available. Public transportation is limited but the Kayak Public Transit provides bus services that connect Pendleton to nearby communities. Renting a car is also a viable option for exploring the broader area.

The official currency is the U.S. Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, including restaurants, hotels, and shops. ATMs are plentiful, especially in the downtown area. However, it's a good idea to carry some cash for smaller vendors and rural areas where card payments might not be accepted.

Pendleton is generally a safe city for tourists. However, it is advisable to take standard precautions such as avoiding walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keeping an eye on your belongings in crowded places. The downtown area is typically safe, but it's always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. The local police station and medical facilities are well-equipped to handle emergencies. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are several pharmacies in Pendleton where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably and casually, but bring layers as the weather can change quickly. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting churches or historical sites. Public Transport: Do be respectful and courteous to fellow passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a handshake. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and be open to new tastes. Don’t refuse food offerings, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Pendleton like a local, visit the Pendleton Farmers Market, which runs from May through October, to buy fresh produce and local crafts. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the city’s history and culture. Don’t miss the Pendleton Round-Up, an annual rodeo event that occurs every September and offers a deep dive into local traditions and Western heritage. For a unique experience, take a tour of the Pendleton Underground, a series of tunnels used historically for various purposes.