Czechoslovakian Immigrant and Pioneer of Paulina Valley
By Steve Lent, Crook County Historian
George Roba, born Gyorgy Janos Roba in Czechoslovakia on March 15, 1862, embarked on a transformative journey that shaped the landscape of Paulina Valley in central Oregon.
At the age of nineteen, George immigrated to the United States, initially finding work in Pennsylvania's coal mines before venturing westward. His path led him to the rugged beauty of Oregon's McKenzie River Valley and eventually to Paulina Valley, where he crossed paths with Joe Lister, a prominent sheep rancher. Joining Lister's operations, George soon established his homestead near upper Paulina Valley. The creek that meandered through their land would forever be known as Roba Creek, while a nearby butte took on the name Roba Butte in honor of his family's presence.
Initially purchasing sheep from Tom Lister, George found success in sheepherding and wool production. He transported his wool to Shaniko, securing supplies for his ranch, a testament to his resourcefulness and dedication. However, the turn of the 20th century brought conflicts between sheep and cattle ranchers, prompting George to transition to cattle and horse breeding.
In partnership with Lee Miller, George expanded his entrepreneurial ventures by establishing a mercantile store in Paulina, where he played an active role in community commerce. Despite early successes, the mercantile venture faced challenges, prompting George to briefly explore prospecting in John Day Valley before returning to his true passion of ranching.
Alongside his wife Mary, whom he married in 1886, George raised eight children in Paulina Valley. Mary's cultivation of a bountiful garden supplemented their household, while George embarked on building a grand stone house on their homestead. This two-story, six-bedroom house became a landmark in Paulina Valley and was later honored with placement on the National Register of Historic Places.
After a life dedicated to the land and community, Mary passed away in 1933, followed by George in 1939. Their legacy endures through their contributions to the development of Paulina Valley, where they are both interred in the serene grounds of Beaver Creek Cemetery east of Paulina.