A variety of people have influenced the preservations, development, and later, restoration of Oregon Caves. After Elijah Davidson entered the cave in 1874, more people followed, and before long the caves were developed for tours.

Protect and Preserve

After visiting the caves in 1907, Joaquin Miller, the "Poet of the Sierras", wrote an article about his experience in the cave. This was the first nationwide coverage of the caves. Due to the urging of Miller, C.B. Watson, and other influential people--the caves were declared a National Monument by President William Howard Taft in 1909.