About

Laura Shepard (Ferguson)

Founder and Principal Historian

As a historian, I specialize in the history of the American West and public history. I’m invested in working closely with communities on projects that bring their history to light.

Along the way, I’ve worked as a curator at the High Desert Museum and taught at Whitman College as a visiting assistant professor. I served on the Oregon Heritage Commission and continue to serve on the Oregon Historical Quarterly board. I received my doctorate from the University of Michigan. I live in Bend, Oregon, where I enjoy hiking in the mountains and spending time on the river.

Chelsea Rose, MA, RPA

Director, Southern Oregon University Laboratory of Anthropology

"Laura has not only brought expertise, experience, and insight to every project we have collaborated on, but she also approaches history and heritage with curiosity, compassion, and a desire to document and share stories with respect for those who lived them."