Savage in Bend: The Oldest Business

Because I often get questions about the “oldest” things in Central Oregon, I thought I’d tackle one to kick off the Savage in Bend column for this year.

Catherine H. asks, “What is the oldest business in Bend?”

There are several factors to consider, but if we mean the currently operating longest business under the same name the winner is….

A tie?!

Yep, two local businesses hold the title of longest running business, and both have been in operation since 1911!

Personally, I think this is an extraordinary accomplishment. It’s hard enough to run a successful business for a short time, let alone make it through recessions, depressions, world wars, pandemics and other economic turmoil. These businesses have beat all the odds.

First up, Miller Lumber. This company was started by Harry A. (Ham) Miller at a time when the logging industry was the driving force behind the region’s economy.

From the beginning, the Miller family has always been very active in the community. Ham, and later his son, William, both served as Bend mayors at one point. Valuing education, they lobbied in Salem for a local college, which eventually became Central Oregon Community College. They set up scholarships for students, donated land to build the COCC campus in Madras, and contributed regularly to countless local causes. You’ve likely heard their name elsewhere. Does Miller’s Landing or William E. Miller Elementary ring a bell?

To make way for the new Highway 97 in the 1960s Miller’s moved its operation from its original downtown location on Oregon Avenue to its current spot at the intersection of Division Street and Greenwood. For a long time the company was doing business in Redmond, Prineville, Madras and Bend.

Perhaps more special is that the company stayed family owned until 2022 when Charlie Miller, Ham’s grandson, sold it to Kodiak Building Partners. I spoke with a longtime employee, Randy Capps, who said he believed their success came down to keeping overhead low, especially when times were tough. Choosing the right supplies at the right time and consistently investing in the community also played a big role. Always resilient, the lumber company has outlasted even the mills and is still going strong. Today, Miller Lumber offers wholesale supplies ranging from lumber (obviously) to windows, tools, and other building materials.

Donner Flower Shop shares the esteemed title of Bend’s oldest business. Because you’re a savvy Source Weekly reader, you’ve likely heard the name. The shop was voted as the “Best Florist” in town multiple times.

Donner’s bounced around to different locations on Wall Street before it landed in its current building at 605 NW Newport Avenue. Opened by Grace Donner in 1911, the floral shop passed through different hands during its history. Doris Dilday ran it for about 30 years until her daughter, Tanja Rodgers, became the current owner when she decided to keep it in the family.

When I asked Rodgers what she thinks has been the key to longevity, she replied, “I think it’s all about providing great products, consistency and even better customer service. Customers appreciate the effort and kindness goes a long way.”

In 2026 both businesses celebrate 115 years, an impressive milestone! Stop by and say, “Happy Birthday!”

But wait! Aren’t newspapers technically considered businesses as well? I’d argue yes, which technically means the local Bend Bulletin lays claim to the “oldest” title of all. The first issue of the newspaper was published in March 1903 before Bend even became incorporated as a city.

The Bulletin had its humble beginnings in a log cabin on the banks of the Deschutes River, a small wood structure which also served as Bend’s first school. How cool would it be to go to school by the river!? For those interested, there is a replica of the original cabin on display in front of Pilot Butte Middle School.

So there you have it, oldies but goodies that have stood the test of time. Businesses that invest time and money locally are the backbone of their communities and help us all thrive. Utmost respect to all of them, especially the long running ones.

Maybe I’ll tackle another “oldest” question soon. Oldest structure, oldest tree, oldest Source Weekly employee …

Until then, I’m out of space!

If you have questions you want answered, send them to savageglobetrotters@gmail.com

This article appears in the Source January 29, 2026.