Subsequent clashes between the two cultures led to creation of the Malheur Indian Reservation, which included the Drewsey area, in 1872.

[4] Abner Robbins opened a store here in 1883 and named the place "Gouge Eye"[5] to commemorate a local dispute.

When Robbins applied for a post office, postal authorities did not accept the original name, so he changed it to "Drusy".

[6] Drewsey grew rapidly in the late 19th century, depending on farming and ranching for its economic base.

However, bypassed by the nearest east−west railway as well as the main highway, Drewsey lost population during the Great Depression and after.

In the 21st century, Drewsey consists of a small number of homes, a combined garage and store with a post office, a tavern and restaurant, two churches, and an elementary school.