The Oregon Rifles was the first military force organized for the protection of white settlers of the Oregon Country in the Pacific Northwest of North America.
[1] Shortly after the Whitman Massacre, Oregon Governor George Abernethy communicated to the legislature his concern about the seriousness of the conditions, and issued a call for volunteers.
A company of 45 men, furnishing their own rifles and equipment, organized in Oregon City and arrived in The Dalles on December 21, 1847.
[1] Those who did not have their own rifles were furnished arms by John McLoughlin.
H. A. G. Lee was named captain of the unit.