Kevin Max, a New York City financial journalist, relocated to Oregon and founded the magazine.

Despite the difficult economic situation prevalent at the time of its 2009 launch — a moment at which American magazines were experiencing a 26% decline in ad revenue over previous-year figures — 1859 Oregon's Magazine experienced initial success powered by its placement in Borders Books, Barnes & Noble, and the grocery chain Whole Foods.

[2] 1859 found its niche covering statewide arts and culture, adventure and exploration, and focussing on Oregon as a whole rather than any single region or city.

Statehood Media continues to expand upon its original mission statement exploring statewide culture and community.

"[3] The publication touts Oregon for "a wealth of recreational, ecological, historical and entrepreneurial intrigue," including residents who are "pioneers in the sustainable movement, bike geeks and techies, Native Americans and cowboys, financiers and vintners.