The name is a concatenation of the last names of Peter French and Dr. Glen, who owned the P Ranch together. The local history of the Donner und Blitzen Valley is fascinating, and writing about it a future web project of mine. The Frenchglen Hotel has long been a favorite of birders and other visitors. Dating back to the 1800s, the hotel is a cozy two-story wooden frame structure which belongs to the Oregon State Parks Department, and is leased to a fellow named John who runs the place.
Prices are reasonable and portions generous.
For many years, the small store next to the hotel was run by an obnoxious woman disliked by outsiders and local ranchers alike. With the nearest competition 65 miles north in Burns or 55 miles south in Fields Oasis , she apparently saw no need to be civil to folks forced to buy gas from her at exorbitant prices. Thankfully, a couple from Bend decided to buy the place in 1995. A portion of the premises have been transformed into the Buckaroo Room, with good Oregon microbrews available, and a screened-in deck is almost as attractive as the hotel's front porch. Over Memorial Day Weekend in 1995 they held the First Annual Frenchglen Beer and Wine Festival, a smashing success with locals and visitors alike.