city, seat (1905) of Union county, northeastern Oregon, U.S., between the Blue Mountains (west) and Wallowa Mountains (east), on the Grande Ronde River. The region was once roamed by Umatilla Indians. The city was founded in 1864 as a way station along the Oregon Trail. It developed as a shipping centre for ores, timber, and cattle; the cattle and lumber industries remain the economic mainstays of the city. La Grande is the home of Eastern Oregon University (1929). Nearby are the historic Elgin Opera House (1912), the Oregon Trail Interpretive Park at Blue Mountain Crossing, and the Union County Museum. The city serves as a gateway to Hells Canyon National Recreation Area. Inc. 1865. Pop. (1990) 11,766; (2000) 12,327.