Title: A Park Renamed: Honoring Terrence Foley’s Legacy
Bend, OR – Terrence Foley State Park, previously known as Pilot Butte State Park, pays homage to a local hero whose contributions to the Bend community have largely gone unrecognized. The story of Foley began in 1910 when he left the Alaska gold rush to join a friend in Bend. With his electrical expertise, he quickly became a valuable asset, earning the admiration of the community.
Kelly Cannon-Miller, executive director of the Deschutes Historical Museum, describes Foley as "indispensable." Not only did he thrive in his role as vice president and general manager of the Bend Water, Power and Light Company, but he also played a pivotal role during WWI through his leadership with the Red Cross in Bend.
Tragically, Foley’s life was cut short following a car accident in 1925 that claimed his life after he sustained critical injuries. His death sent shockwaves through a community that revered him. In an act of remembrance, the owners of the Bend Water, Power and Light Company honored Foley’s impact by purchasing Pilot Butte and donating it to the state of Oregon in 1928 as a memorial to his legacy.
On September 30, 1928, the donation was ceremoniously accepted, with Governor Isaac Patterson in attendance. This gesture marked a significant community milestone; Pilot Butte remains a beloved local landmark, where residents often gather to enjoy panoramic views.
In 2006, Foley’s grandson, Terry Foley, took initiatives to revitalize the park, ensuring that his grandfather’s legacy endured. Today, many argue that the park should honor Foley’s name, recognizing his vital contributions that shaped the Bend community into what it is today. "If he hadn’t been here, this place would be different," Cannon-Miller asserts, acknowledging the legacy of a true pillar of Bend.
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Photo credit www.centraloregondaily.com
