Editor’s note: The following editorial originally appeared in The Bend Bulletin on Oct. 16, 1903.

A correspondent who seems to have some interest in the Deschutes townsite writes to ask why it is that The Bulletin continually speaks of this locality as Bend rather than Deschutes, which is the name of the post office. This is a very proper inquiry, is apparently in good faith, and it shall have a candid answer.

The chief reason for use of the name Bend in designating this town, settlement, locality is that it has been known by that name, which means something to outsiders. Bend has always been more than a mere post office. Farewell Bend was even more descriptive, growing out of the experience of rugged pioneers who toiled across the plains to make and enjoy Oregon. Farewell Bend for more than a generation had a definite geographical meaning to the people who have made Oregon and whose children are carrying on the work so well begun. Shortened finally to Bend, to suit the convenience of this hurrying age, the name still retained geographic and historic significance and it has never lost that. It means today what none of the local townsite names means. It is more comprehensive, more distinctive and incomparably better known. The Bulletin sticks to its use in designating this locality because it seems to be the only one that fits. It also avoids confusion of the two Oregon places named Deschutes.

As to the townsite of Bend, or of Deschutes, or of Lytle, The Bulletin has no special interest in any and no motive for discriminating against any of them. When there is occasion to use any of the names it is used. But those names are purely local and restrictive. Undoubtedly there will be incorporation for some of these townsites. Establishment of a municipal government will put the matter in quite a different light. We think it will be better to adopt the historic name for the municipality to do so. Others may think different, and they are entitled to their view. We are ready to accept facts as we find them.

Bend already has official standing. It is Bend precinct, Bend road district etc. The United States commissioner was appointed for Bend. None of these has reference to any local townsite but to the locality as known to geography and history. That is the sense in which The Bulletin uses it.