Salem, Oregon - PLACES by Robert D. West

Living in Salem, Oregon for two years, I amassed a lot of pictures of the city; so many that one page wasn't enough. This is Part 3, featuring Salem's government buildings, including Oregon State, Marion County and City of Salem buildings and parks and some Salem schools. The following links will jump to the other sections.

Part 3:

Government Buildings

Part 4:

Miscellaneous Sites

I referred to many internet resources for this project, including the Oregon State Library Photograph Collection, the City of Salem, the Salem Historic Landmarks Commission, Salem Online History, the Salem Public Library's Oregon Historic Photograph Collections, Salem Historical Quarterly, the Salem Oregon Community Guide, the Salem Heritage Network, the Salem Historic Downtown Historic District Walking Tour by Virginia at Picasa Web Albums and Thomas Robinson's Historic Photo Archive. Other internet resources are linked throughout the pages. I also used a 1965-1966 copy of the Oregon Blue Book. Historical photographs and some graphics were photographed from interpretive displays at various locations in Salem. Most other graphics, including maps, are my own creations, though they may be based on maps from other sources.

Introduction

As the capitol of the State of Oregon, Marion County seat and Oregon's third largest city, Salem has many government buildings and facilities, including some former government buildings that have found other uses, and some sites of some past government buildings.

1. Oregon State Capitol

900 Court Street NE

Oregon City was Oregon's first territorial capitol. In 1850 the capitol was shifted to Salem, where it has remained, except for a short stay in Corvallis in 1855. Oregon’s first Capitol building was built in 1854 at a cost of $40,000. It had a short existence as on December 30, 1855 a fire broke out in the unfinished northeast corner. The fire spread, resulting in a complete loss of the building and its contents. The Legislature was in session at the time and started meeting in the Holman Building on the corner of Ferry and Commercial Streets, which would serve as the State Capitol until a new Capitol was completed in 1876. The Secretary of State and State Treasurer also had their offices in the Holman Building from 1857 to 1876. The Governor's office and the State Supreme Court were located in the Nesmith Building, just across Ferry Street from the Holman Building.

Historical Photos:

Oregon State Capitol, 1855 (Salem Public Library)

Oregon State Capitol (Oregon State Library)

In 1857, the people of the Oregon Territory voted to write a constitution and petition the United States for admittance as a state (the proposal had been previously voted down three times). Oregon elected a state government in 1858, with John Whitaker as governor, without waiting for Congress's decision, which was delayed by conflicts between northern and southern states. Oregon was admitted as a state on February 14, 1859, and word was sent by overland express from St. Louis to San Francisco, where the steamer Brother Jonathan delivered the message to Portland early on March 15 and it went by horseback on to Salem, where the announcement was made from the Nesmith Building downtown. In 1864, Salem became the official state capitol by popular vote.

Old Oregon State Capitol

Interior of the House of Representatives chamber.

Postcard Photograph from the collection of Bob & Helen Tompkins

Construction of a new Capitol building, designed by architect Justice F. Krumbein, was authorized by the State Legislature in 1872. Ground was broken in May of 1873 and the cornerstone was laid on October 8, 1973. The building was constructed using bricks made by convicts at the Oregon State Penitentiary. The building was completed and occupied on August 26, 1876. Construction cost approximately $325,000. Like many State Capitols, the building was patterned loosely after the Capitol in Washington D.C., though not all of the architectural features were originally included. The porticoes with their Corinthian columns, with fluted veneer facings made of Douglas County limestone, were not added until 1888, and the massive copper dome, supported by hollow metal girders, was not constructed until 1893. After completion of the dome, the total cost had risen to $500,000. The original plans also called for a tower at each end of the building, but these were never built.

Historical Photos:

Oregon State Capitol, 1875 (Salem Public Library)

Oregon State Capitol, 1876 (Oregon State Library)

Oregon State Capitol, 1888-1893 (Salem Public Library)

Oregon State Capitol, 1888-1893 (Oregon State Library)

Oregon State Capitol, 1893-1935 (Salem Public Library)

Oregon State Capitol, 1900 (Salem Public Library)

Oregon State Capitol, 1903 (Oregon Historical Society)

Oregon State Capitol, 1903 (Oregon State Library)

President Roosevelt at the Capitol, 1903 (Salem Public Library)

Oregon State Capitol, 1900-1915 (Salem Public Library)

Oregon State Capitol, unknown date (Salem Public Library)

Oregon State Capitol, unknown date (Oregon State Library)

Willson Park & State Capitol, pre 1912 (Oregon State Library)

Oregon State Capitol & Waite Fountain, unknown date (Oregon State Library)

Waite Fountain, unknown date (Oregon State Library)

Oregon State Capitol, circa 1912 (Oregon State Library)

House of Representatives Chamber in second capitol, pre-1920 (Oregon State Library)

Oregon State Capitol, 1929 (HistoricPhotoArchive.com)

Oregon State Capitol on fire, April 25, 1935.

On April 25, 1935, a fire started in the basement of the east wing of the Capitol building. A strong updraft was created by stair and elevator wells, the rotunda, and the hollow girders that supported the dome. This caused noticeable smoke to be visible coming from the dome, and also allowed the fire to spread quickly. Area residents were able to save furniture, records, equipment and files from the first floor, and a few records and other items from the other floors, before the rapidly advancing fire engulfed the building. Only the exterior walls were left standing after the fire was extinguished.

Historical Photos:

Smoke coming from the Oregon State Capitol Dome, April 25, 1935 (Salem Public Library)

Oregon State Capitol on Fire, April 25, 1935 (Oregon State Library)

Oregon State Capitol Dome on Fire, April 25, 1935 (Oregon State Library)

Oregon State Capitol Dome on fire at night (Oregon Historical Society)

Oregon State Capitol on Fire from a distance, April 25, 1935 (Virginia@Picasa)

Oregon State Capitol on Fire from a distance, April 25, 1935 (Oregon State Library)

Oregon State Capitol on Fire, April 25, 1935 (Oregon State Library)

Oregon State Capitol Fire, April 26, 1935 (Oregon State Library)

Oregon State Capitol after fire, April 26, 1935 (Salem Public Library)

Oregon State Capitol after fire, 1935 (Salem Public Library)

Oregon State Capitol Interior after Fire, 1935 (Oregon State Library)

Oregon State Capitol Dome after fire, 1935 (Salem Public Library)

Oregon State Capitol Dome after fire, 1935 (Oregon State Library)

Oregon State Capitol after fire, aerial view, 1935 (Oregon State Library)

Oregon State Capitol after fire, aerial view, 1935 (Salem Public Library)

Oregon State Capitol columns after fire, 1935 (Salem Public Library)

Oregon State Capitol Grounds after Fire, 1935 (Oregon State Library)

Oregon State Capitol Wall after Fire, 1935 (Oregon State Library)

Oregon State Capitol Walls after Fire, 1935 (Oregon State Library)

Workers at Oregon State Capitol after Fire, 1935 (Oregon State Library)

Oregon State Capitol Main Stairs after Fire, 1935 (Oregon State Library)

Last Piece of Oregon State Capitol Building being pulled down (Oregon State Library)

Construction of the current Capitol building was authorized in 1935 at a special session of the State Legislature. The building was designed by the Trowbridge & Livingstone architectural firm, with Francis Keally as associate architect and the Whitehouse & Church firm of Portland as Oregon associates. The Capitol is built of white Vermont marble and bronze, and features modern Greek architecture with severely simple exterior lines. As built, the building was 395 feet long and 162 feet wide, with a usable area of 131,750 square feet. the main building is 53 feet high, while the top of the tower is 128 feet high. From the top of the tower, Cascade Mountains Jefferson, Hood, Adams and St. Helens are visible on clear days. Mounted on the top of the tower is Ulric Ellerhusen's golden Pioneer statue, which brings the total height to 173 feet and an elevation of 337 feet above sea level, making it the second tallest building and second highest point in Salem, after the steeple spire of the First United Methodist Church. The capitol building was occupied on July 2, 1938 and was dedicated on October 1, 1938. It was fully completed in 1939 at a cost of $2,500,000.

The Capitol building's dedication plaque reads as follows:

THE ERECTION OF THIS BUILDING WAS AUTHORIZED BY THE STATE LEGISLATURE AT ITS SPECIAL SESSION IN 1935 IN THE ADMINISTRATION OF

GOVERNOR CHARLES H. MARTIN

PRESIDENT OF THE SENATE

HENRY L. CORBETT

SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE

HOWARD F. LATOURETTE

MEMBERS OF THE CAPITOL COMMISSION

CHAIRMAN JOHN A. M^cLEAN - EUGENE

VICE-CHAIRMAN H. H. OLINGER - SALEM

T. H. BANFIELD

PORTLAND

ERNEST C. DALTON

ST. HELENS

HORACE H. LAKE

PORTLAND

GEORGE R. LEWIS

PENDLETON

SECRETARY

LEGAL ADVISOR

TECHNICAL ADVISOR

GEORGE A. MARSHALL

BAKER

ROBERT W. SAWYER

BEND

WARREN H. TREECE

PORTLAND

HELEN BURRELL MOORHIES

MEDFORD

ALTON JOHN BASSETT

RALPH E. MOODY

CARL F. GOULD

THE CAPITOL WAS DEDICATED AND OPENED TO PUBLIC USE IN THE YEAR 1938

TROWBRIDGE & LIVINGSTON

FRANCIS KEALLY

WHITEHOUSE & CHURCH

ROSS B. HAMMOND INCORPORATED

ARCHITECTS

ASSOCIATE ARCHITECT

OREGON ASSOCIATES

BUILDERS

At the main entrance to the capitol are two statuary blocks by New York artist Leo Friedlander. They are among the largest sculpture groups in America. The eastern sculpture depicts the Lewis and Clark party led by Sacajawea an carried the inscription, "Westward the star of empire takes its way." The western sculpture represents a pioneer family en route to Oregon and carries the inscription "Valiant men have thrust out frontiers to the setting sun." Each sculpture has a depiction of a historic map of the western United States carved in relief on the reverse. The eastern sculpture depicts the time of Lewis & Clark's expedition, while the western one depicts the time of the Old Oregon Trail.

Flanking the main entry doors of the capitol building are these two inscriptions, which are carved into the buildings marble exterior.

A FREE STATE

IS FORMED AND MAINTAINED

BY THE VOLUNTARY UNION

OF THE WHOLE PEOPLE

JOINED TOGETHER

UNDER THE SAME BODY OF LAWS

FOR THE COMMON WELFARE

AND THE SHARING OF BENEFITS

JUSTLY APPORTIONED

THE MIND OF MAN

KNOWS NO EMPLOYMENT

MORE WORTHY OF ITS POWERS

THAN THE QUEST OF RIGHTEOUSNESS

IN HUMAN AFFAIRS

NO GOAL OF ITS LABOURS

THAT IS SUPERIOR TO

THE DISCOVERY OF THE GOOD

IN THE GUIDANCE OF LIFE

Inside the Capitol building, the walls of the rotunda and hallways are rose travertine marble quarried in Montana. The baseboard and ramps of the great stairways are Vermont black marble and the rotunda floor and stairs are Napoleon gray marble from Missouri. High on the walls are eight octagonal medallions, each depicting a feature from the State Seal. In the center of the rotunda floor is a large bronze Oregon State Seal by Ulric Ellerhusen, who also created the golden Pioneer on top of the Capitol building, as well as other small works above the entrances.

The walls of the circular rotunda feature four murals by Barry Faulkner and Frank H. Schwarz, who also painted the provisional seal above the steps to the Senate chamber on the east side of the rotunda and the territorial seal above the steps to the House of Representatives chamber on the west side.

On the ceiling of the dome above the rotunda is a decorative painting by Frank H. Schwarz of a sunburst with a large star representing Oregon surrounded by 32 smaller stars representing the other states at the time of Oregon's admission to the Union. Surrounding the dome ceiling are a series of eagles and torches.

The Senate chamber features paneling and furniture of black walnut. The carpet depicts wheat and salmon, symbolizing Oregon's agricultural and fishing industries. The mural behind the Senate President's desk is by Frank H. Schwarz and depicts a downtown Salem street scene when Oregon's admission into the Union was announced.

The House of Representatives chamber features paneling and furniture of golden oak. The carpet depicts the Douglas Fir, Oregon's state tree. The mural behind the Speaker's desk is by Barry Faulkner and depicts Oregon pioneers establishing the provisional government at Champoeg in 1843.

The friezes near the ceiling in each of the two-story legislative chambers contain the names of 157 men and women who were connected in some manner with the history and background of Oregon.

The Governor's reception room and ceremonial office are between the two legislative chambers. Both are finished with black walnut paneling.

The Governor's ceremonial office contains an ornate desk, a grandfather clock and a fireplace. The map of Oregon above the fireplace was created by Barry Faulkner.

On November 11, 1975, wings were added to the Capitol building, containing administrative offices and hearing rooms. The wings were designed by the Zimmer-Gunsel-Frasca Partnership to match the building's original construction and maintain its symmetry. The new wings were first occupied on January 10, 1977 and were dedicated on June 10, 1977.

The following inscription dedicated the new wings:

THE ADDITION OF OFFICE WINGS AND HEARING ROOMS TO THE OREGON STATE CAPITOL STANDS IN TRIBUTE TO THOSE CITIZENS WHO HAVE SERVED THEIR STATE AS SENATORS AND REPRESENTATIVES WITH HONESTY, VISION AND COURAGE SINCE 1859.

IT IS DEDICATED TO ALL THE SERVICE OF ALL OREGONIANS, WITH FAITH THAT THESE HALLS SHALL BE A PLACE OF WISE DECISIONS, OPENLY ARRIVED AT, REPRESENTING THE COLLECTIVE WISDOM OF ALL THE PEOPLE OF OREGON.

THE ADDITION WAS AUTHORIZED BY THE 58th LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY THROUGH CHAPTER 447, 1975 LAWS, SIGNED BY GOVERNOR ROBERT W. STRAUB ON JUNE 27, 1975. GROUND WAS BROKEN ON NOVEMBER 11, 1975. THE ADDITION WAS OCCUPIED BY THE 59th LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY ON JANUARY 10, 1977 AND DEDICATED JUNE 10, 1977.

THE 58th LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY

JASON D. BOE

PRESIDENT OF THE SENATE

PHILIP D. LANG

SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE

ZIMMER-GUNSEL-FRASCA PARTNERSHIP, ARCHITECT

PIETRO BELLUSCHI, DESIGN CONSULTANT

TODD BUILDING COMPANY, GENERAL CONTRACTOR

The Oregon State Capitol was placed on the National Register of Historic Places on June 29, 1988.

This mosaic of the Oregon State Seal is on display in the Capitol. It was created in 1973 by Russell E. Ziolkowski, an sanitation employee of the Springfield, Oregon public works department, and consists of everyday items like marbles, beads, coins and small toys, many of which he found while working, as well as natural items. Ziolkowski passed away in 2004.

Historical Photos:

Oregon State Capitol under construction, 1936 (Salem Public Library)

Oregon State Capitol under construction, 1937 (Salem Public Library)

Governor Charles Martin with cornerstone for new Capitol, June 17, 1937 (Oregon State Library)

New Oregon State Capitol (Oregon Historical Society)

New Oregon State Capitol (Oregon State Library)

Oregon State Capitol, 1937 (Salem Public Library)

Oregon State Capitol, 1938 (Salem Public Library)

Pioneer being moved for regilding, 1938 (Salem Public Library)

Pioneer before being placed, 1938 (Salem Public Library)

Oregon State Capitol, 1939 (HistoricPhotoArchive.net)

Oregon State Capitol in the 1940s (HistoricPhotoArchive.com)

Oregon State Capitol, April 4, 1947 (Salem Public Library)

Aerial Photo of new Capitol, pre-1949 (Oregon State Library)

New wings under construction, 1976 (Salem Public Library)

Pioneer, July 28, 1989 (Salem Public Library)

Additional Links:

Oregon State Capitol Tour from the Oregon State Legislature

Oregon State Capitol and the Capitol Mall at Salem Online History

Oregon State Capitol at Salem Historical Quarterly

Willson Park at Salem Historical Quarterly

History of the Oregon State Capitol, Central Oregon's Letter of Architectural News, April '00

Oregon State Capitol at the Salem Oregon Community Guide

Gilding the Oregon Capitol Pioneer at the Salem Oregon Community Guide

Salem Oregon's Tallest Building at the Salem Oregon Community Guide

The grounds of the Oregon State Capital are divided between the grounds to the east, which have always been owned by the state, and the grounds to the west, which are called Willson Park and were owned by the city and operated as a city park until 1965.

A. Breyman Brothers Fountain

This fountain at the west end of the capital grounds was presented to the city of Salem by the Breyman Brothers in 1904. At one time the fountain was topped with light fixtures and a statue of a soldier that served as a memorial to the Spanish-American War. The receptacles at the bottom led some people to refer to the fountain as the "Breyman Horse Trough."

Additional Links:

Breyman Fountain at the Salem Oregon Community Guide

Capitol View showing the Breyman Fountain at the Salem Oregon Community Guide

Breyman Brothers Fountain at Discover-Neighborhood-History

Historical Photos:

Breyman Brothers Fountain, January 13, 1909 (Salem Public Library)

Breyman Brothers Fountain, 1904-1935 (Salem Public Library)

Breyman Brothers Fountain, 1904-1935 (Oregon State Library)

Breyman Brothers Fountain, July 19, 1964 (Salem Public Library)

B. Oregon Trail Marker

This stone and plaque in Willson Park marking the Oregon Trail is dedicated to the Oregon pioneers and was placed by the Chemeketa Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution on August 25, 1922.

C. The Circuit Rider

The Circuit Rider statue is located on the east side of the Capitol. The bronze statue by A. Phimister Proctor depicts one of Oregon's pioneer circuit-riding Methodist ministers and commemorates "the labors and achievements of the ministers of the Gospel, who as circuit riders became the friends, counselors and evengels to the pioneers on every American frontier." The statue was cast by the Roman Bronze Works in New York. It was presented to the state of Oregon in 1924 "in reverent and grateful remembrance of Robert Booth, pioneer minister of the Oregon Country - by his son, Robert A. Booth." The three and one half ton statue was knocked off its pedestal by the winds of the 1962 Columbus Day Storm.

Historical Photos:

Circuit Rider Statue, 1924-1935 (Oregon State Library)

Circuit Rider Statue, 1924-1935 (Salem Public Library)

Circuit Rider Statue after Columbus Day Storm, 1962 (Salem Public Library)

D. Liberty Bell Replica

This replica of the Liberty Bell is one of 53 cast in France in 1950 and given to each of the 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Two additional bells were cast for the city in France where they were made and Independence, Missouri, hometown of then-president Harry Truman.

Like the original Liberty Bell, the replica bears the following words:

Proclaim LIBERTY throughout all the Land unto all the Inhabitants thereof Lev. XXV vs X.

By Order of the ASSEMBLY of the Province of PENSYLVANIA for the State House in Philad^a

Pass and Stow

Philad^a

MDCCLIII

The plaque accompanying the replica reads as follows:

DEDICATED TO YOU, A FREE CITIZEN IN A FREE LAND

THIS REPRODUCTION OF THE LIBERTY BELL WAS PRESENTED TO THE PEOPLE OF

OREGON

BY DIRECTION OF

THE HONORABLE JOHN W. SNYDER

SECRETARY OF THE TREASURY

AS THE INSPIRATIONAL SYMBOL OF THE

UNITED STATES SAVINGS BONDS INDEPENDENCE DRIVE

FROM MAY 15 TO JULY 4, 1950, IT WAS DISPLAYED IN

EVERY PART OF THIS STATE.

THE DIMENSIONS AND TONE ARE IDENTICAL

WITH THOSE OF THE ORIGINAL LIBERTY BELL WHEN IT

RANG OUT OUR INDEPENDENCE IN 1776.

IN STANDING BEFORE THIS SYMBOL, YOU HAVE THE

OPPORTUNITY TO DEDICATE YOURSELF,

AS DID OUR FOUNDING FATHERS, TO THE PRINCIPALS

OF THE INDIVIDUAL FREEDOM FOR WHICH OUR NATION STANDS.

THIS BELL IS ONE OF FIFTY-THREE CAST IN FRANCE IN 1950,

AND GIVEN TO THE UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT BY:

AMERICAN SMELTING AND REFINING COMPANY

ANACONDA COPPER MINING COMPANY

KENNECOTT COPPER CORPORATION

MIAMI COPPER COMPANY

PHELPS DODGE CORPORATION

THE AMERICAN METAL COMPANY, LIMITED

STEEL SUPPORTS BY U. S. STEEL CORPORATION’S AMERICAN BRIDGE COMPANY

THIS PLAQUE DONATED BY REVERE COPPER AND BRASS INCORPORATED

E. Statue of Dr. John McLoughlin

This statue by Gifford Proctor, Sr. and G. M. Proctor depicts Dr. John McLoughlin (1784-1857), first to govern the Oregon Country, 1824-1843. The statue was dedicated in 1953.

F. Statue of Rev. Jason Lee

This statue by Gifford Proctor, Sr. and G. M. Proctor depicts Reverend Jason Lee (1803-1845), first missionary in Oregon and colonizer, 1834-1843. The statue was dedicated in 1953.

G. Column Segments

These Corinthian column segments are originally from the west and east entrance porticos of the second Oregon State Capitol. They were originally constructed in 1888 and consist of bricks made by convicts at the Oregon State Penitentiary and fluted veneer facings made of limestone from quarries in Douglas County. After the Capitol was destroyed in the fire on April 25, 1935, the column segments were dumped in various places around Salem. These segments were found in Mill Creek, near the Governor's residence, and on State 4-H property. Another column segment remains on the grounds of the Deepwood estate. Governor Victor Atiyeh and his wife promoted preserving the column segments. Mrs. Atiyeh led the effort to design and construct this display, with the assistance of the Oregon Historical Properties Committee, employees of the Department of General Services, Oregon State Penitentiary personnel and inmates, Mr. O. H. Duncan, who served a construction coordinator and the many citizens who donated time, talent and materials to the project. The column segments were removed from their various locations in 1980. This display was dedicated on February 12, 1981.

H. Gazebo

This gazebo was designed by architect Blanchard-Lamen, AIA and constructed in 1982 by inmates and staff of the Oregon State Correctional Institution. It was presented to the citizens of the State of Oregon by the Willamette Christmas Association, which consists of the Begonia Society, the Capitol Arrangers Guild, the Fircrest Garden Club, the Grow and Show Garden Club, the Little Garden Club of Salem Heights, the Salem Men's Garden Club, the Rose Society and the Wilark Park Garden Club.

I. Capitol Beaver Family

The Capitol Beaver Family was created by sculptor Kenneth M. Scott. It was presented to the citizens of the State of Oregon by the Willamette Christmas Association, which consists of the Begonia Society, the Capitol Arrangers Guild, the Fircrest Garden Club, the Grow and Show Garden Club, the Little Garden Club of Salem Heights, the Salem Men's Garden Club, the Rose Society and the Wilark Park Garden Club in June, 1985.

J. A Parade of Animals

A Parade of Animals by Peter Helzer was placed in 1991. The plaque accompanying the sculpture reads as follows:

“A PARADE OF ANIMALS”

BY PETER HELZER

A PUBLIC SCULPTURE HONORING THE CHILDREN OF OREGON

-BENEFACTORS-

FRIENDS & SUPPORTERS OF NEIL GOLDSCHMIDT

DUNCAN, CINDY, JEFF, ANNIE, & COURTNEY CAMPBELL

ROSE E. TUCKER CHARITABLE TRUST

PACIFICORP GROUP

PORTLAND GENERAL ELECTRIC

I B M

-FRIENDS-

OREGON ARTS COMMISSION

CORVALLIS BOYS & GIRLS CLUB

KAISER PERMANENTE

U. S. BANK

OREGON EDUCATION ASSOCIATION

OREGON FREEZE DRY, INC.

OREGON PEDIATRIC SOCIETY

ROTH’S IGA FOODLINERS

CONFEDERATION OF OREGON SCHOOL ADMINISTRATORS

FIRST INTERSTATE BANK OF OREGON

OREGON PUBLIC EMPLOYEES UNION, LOCAL 503 SEIU

LOCAL 412 CHILDREN’S SERVICES DIVISION

LOCAL 459 PUBLIC EMPLOYEES RETIREMENT SYSTEM

LOCAL 274 DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS’ AFFAIRS

THE SAMUEL S. JOHNSON FOUNDATION

PRO TEM, PROFESSIONAL TEMPORARY SERVICES

-SUPPORTERS-

LOUIS AND KATIE BARKER

YOUTH RESOURCES, INC.

DUNBAR AND JANE CARPENTER

OREGON SCHOOL BOARDS ASSOCIATION

PATRICIA C. SMULLIN

MARY HOYT AND VERN FAATZ

KATHRYN, DAVID, AND ELIZABETH MILLER

KATHERINE AND MEGAN NEELY

VERN RYLES, JR.

SHILO INNS

IN MEMORY OF:

CHLOE CLARK WILLSON

WILLIAM HOLDEN WILLSON

ALPENROSE DAIRY

CHASE AND REED JACKSON

KELLY STONE

-SPECIAL THANKS-

DEPARTMENT OF GENERAL SERVICES

MARION CONSTRUCTION COMPANY

DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN RESOURCES

CHILDREN’S SERVICES DIVISION

OREGON PUBLIC BROADCASTING

MID-VALLEY ARTS COUNCIL

1991

K. Oregon Veterans Medal of Honor Memorial

The Oregon Veterans Medal of Honor Memorial consists of two flagpoles, one on each side of the Capitol. The flagpoles are surrounded by plaques honoring Oregon's recipients of the Congressional Medal of Honor. Between the two flagpoles, all of Oregon's recipients are honored. The memorial was dedicated in tribute to all Oregon veterans on September 18, 2004.

For more, see Oregon's Recipients of the Medal of Honor.

L. Walk of the Flags

The Walk of the Flags on the east side of the Capitol was created by the Oregon State Capitol Foundation. It consists of a flag for each of the 50 states; each flag is sponsored by someone who is recognized with a small plaque at the base of the pole. The Walk of the Flags was dedicated on June 14, 2005.

2. Supreme Court Building

1163 State Street

The Oregon Supreme Court Building was built in 1914 at a cost of $320,000. It measures 97 feet wide by 126 feet long. The exterior is cream terra cotta, while the interior finish is marble with tile flooring.

Historical Photos:

Supreme Court Building under construction, circa 1912 (Salem Heritage Network)

Supreme Court Building, unknown date (Oregon State Library)

Supreme Court Building, unknown date (Salem Public Library)

3. Justice Building

1162 Court Street NE

The State Office Building was built in 1930 at a cost of $500,000. Today it is known as the Justice Building.

Historical Photos:

State Office Building, unknown date (Salem Public Library)

4. Commerce Building

158 12th Street NE

The purchase of this 80 by 150 foot concrete building for $84,000 was authorized by the 1931 Legislative Assembly. It was originally used as the Agriculture Building. After the completion of a new Agriculture Building in 1966, this building became the Commerce Building.

Historical Photos:

Agriculture Building, unknown date (Salem Public Library)

Agriculture Building, circa 1962 (Salem Public Library)

Agriculture Building, 1962 (Salem Public Library)

Agriculture Building, December 22, 1965 (Salem Public Library)

5. Executive Building

155 Cottage Street NE

This building to the west of the Capitol Building was built as Salem's Port Office at a cost of $310,000, and was dedicated on October 16, 1937. It was the only marble post office west of the Mississippi River beside Denver's. It served as Salem's post office until 1976, when a new building on 25th street took its place. Today it serves as the State of Oregon Executive Building.

Additional Links:

Salem Post Office at Salem Online History

Historical Photos:

Executive Building as Salem Post Office, 1954 (Salem Public Library)

6. State Library

250 Winter Street NE

The Oregon State Library was the first building constructed on the Capitol Mall. It was completed in 1939. It measures 196 feet long, 103 feet wide and 54 feet high, with an 8 foot high penthouse. It was constructed of white Georgia marble and bronze to harmonize with the Capitol. Including furnishings, it cost $875,730. The Oregon State Library was the first library in the nation to loan books by mail, with the borrower paying postage.

Additional Links:

Oregon State Library at Salem Online History

Oregon State Library at Salem Historical Quarterly

Historical Photos:

State Library Under Construction, July 2, 1938 (Salem Public Library)

State Library Under Construction, December 2, 1938 (Salem Public Library)

State Library, 1950-1955 (Salem Public Library)

State Library, 1959 (Salem Public Library)

State Library, September 1960 (Salem Public Library)

7. Public Service Building

255 Capitol Street NE

The Public Service Building was completed in 1949 at a cost of $2,000,000. It measures 223 feet long, 153 feet wide, 69 feet high and has a gross area of 169,837 square feet. The exterior is made of white Vermont marble and bronze, matching the Capitol building. The main entrance lobby is paneled in Bois Jourdan marble.

Historical Photos:

Spaulding & Miles mansions on Public Service Building site, January 12, 1948 (Oregon State Library)

Public Service Building, 1950-1955 (Salem Public Library)

Public Service Building, 1959 (Salem Public Library)

8. Department of Transportation Building

355 Capitol Street NE

Originally called the State Highway Building, the Department of Transportation Building was completed in 1951 at a cost of over $2,000,000. It measures 236 feet long, 145 feet wide and 71 feet high with a gross area of 145,298 square feet. The exterior is made of white Vermont marble and bronze to match the Capitol and the Public Service Building. The main lobby is paneled in Colorado "Colorosa" marble with a luminous plastic ceiling.

9. Labor and Industries Building

350 Winter Street NE

The groundbreaking ceremonies for the Labor and Industries Building were held in August 14, 1959, and it was dedicated in June, 1961. The building cost $3,300,000 and is 160 feet wide, 240 feet long, 56 feet high and contains 181,200 square feet of space.

Historical Photos:

Labor & Industries Building, unknown date (Salem Public Library)

Labor & Industries Building, 1974 (Salem Public Library)

10. Capitol Mall

The Capitol Mall originally consists of the land directly to the north of the Oregon State Capitol. The State Library, Public Service Building, Department of Transportation Building and Labor & Industries Building all face the Capitol Mall, which has expanded as each of those buildings was constructed.

In 1979, the Capitol Fountain, also called the Sprague Memorial Fountain, was installed in the Capitol Mall between the Department of Transportation Building and the Labor & Industries Building. The fountain was created by sculptor Weltzin Blix in collaboration with sculptor Tom Morandi.

Historical Photos:

Capitol Fountain, 1987 (Salem Public Library)

In 1989, Governor Neil Goldschmidt and the 65th Legislative Assembly authorized the construction of a parking structure under the Capitol Mall. The structure was dedicated in September, 1991.

The parking structure's dedication plaque reads as follows:

CAPITAL MALL

PARKING STRUCTURE

AUTHORIZED IN 1989 BY GOVERNOR NEIL GOLDSCHMIDT

AND THE 65^TH LEGISTATIVE ASSEMBLY

GOVERNOR

BARBARA ROBERTS

ARCHITECT

GUTHRIE/SLUSARENKO/ASSOCIATES

D. BARTLEY GUTHRIE, PRINCIPAL

LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT

WALKER & MACY

LARRY WALKER, PRINCIPAL

DEVELOPER

DEPT. OF GENERAL SERVICES

DAN SIMMONS, DIRECTOR

TOM HAEG, PROJECT MANAGER

BUILDING CONTRACTOR

MARION CONSTRUCTION CO., INC.

EXCAVATION CONTRACTOR

EMERY AND SONS CONSTRUCTION, INC.

DEDICATED: SEPTEMBER, 1991

Historical Photos:

Capitol Mall, 1948 (Salem Public Library)

Capitol Mall, 1952 (Salem Public Library)

Capitol Mall, 1955 (Salem Public Library)

Capitol Mall, 1961 (Salem Public Library)

Capitol Mall, 1972 (Salem Public Library)

Capitol Mall, 1974 (Salem Public Library)

Capitol Mall, 1980 (Salem Public Library)

11. Waldo Park

605 Summer Street NE

This giant sequoia (Sequoiadendron giganteum) was planted in 1872 by Judge William Waldo, son of an 1842 pioneer. During his life Waldo worked to preserve the tree, and after his death others stepped in to save it as the city and its street system threatened it. The Salem City Council declared this 12 foot by 20 foot piece of land Waldo Park in 1936. Ripley's Believe It or Not! cited it as the World's Smallest Park, though Portland's tiny Mill Ends Park took over that distinction in the 1970s. As of April 1998, at 126 years of age, the tree had a circumference of 22 feet and a height of 85 feet.

Historical Photos:

Portrait of William Waldo (Oregon State Library)

12. Agriculture Building

635 Capitol Street NE

The Agriculture Building, completed in 1966 at a cost of $1,065,585, contains 50,000 square feet of offices & laboratories. The bronze sculpture over the main entrance is Land of Oregon by Tom Hardy.

Historical Photos:

Agriculture Building under construction, 1965 (Salem Public Library)

Agriculture Building, 1966 (Salem Public Library)

13. Employment Building

875 Union Street NE

Construction of the Employment Building began in 1974. It was completed in October of 1975 at a total cost of $5,151,124.

Historical Photos:

Employment Building, 1975-1985 (Salem Public Library)

14. Veterans' Building

700 Summer Street NE

Designed by SERA Architects, the Veterans' Building was authorized in 1979 and was dedicated on May 30, 1984. A park-like area behind the building contains a number of veterans memorials. The building has a different plaque at each of its two main entrances. They read as follows:

THE OREGON VETERANS’ BUILDING
STATE OF OREGON

DEDICATED MAY 30, 1984

BY GOVERNOR VICTOR ATIYEH

AUTHORIZED IN 1979 BY

GOVERNOR VICTOR ATIYEH

AND THE 60^TH LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY

CONTRACTOR: WILDISH CORVALLIS CONST. CO.

ARCHITECT: SERA ARCHITECTS

THE OREGON VETERANS’ BUILDING

DEDICATED THIS 30^TH DAY OF MAY, 1984 TO

OREGONIANS, LIVING AND DEAD, WHO FAITHFULLY

SERVED THEIR STATE AND NATION IN THE

ARMED SERVICES OF THE UNITED STATES

VICTOR ATIYEH, GOVERNOR, STATE OF OREGON

STARYL C. AUSTIN, JR., DIRECTOR

OREGON DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS’ AFFAIRS

C. R. CARLSON, CHAIR, ADVISORY COMMITTEE

A. World War I Memorial

The Marion County World War I Memorial, features a bronze Doughboy statue called Over the Top to Victory, designed in 1920 by John Paulding and cast by the American Art Bronze Foundry of Chicago. The statue is one of only two known Paulding Doughboys depicted holding a grenade.

Another Paulding Doughboy of a different design is in Astoria, Oregon.

For more information about the Paulding doughboy statues: John P aulding's Doughboys at Earl D. Goldsmith's Spirit of the American Doughboy Database

This monument was originally placed in front of the Marion County Courthouse in 1924. It was moved here in 1991 and rededicated on May 18, 1991. The original inscription and the rededication plaque read as follows:

THEIR COUNTRY’S CALL

ANSWERED

SONS AND DAUGHTERS OF

MARION COUNTY

WHO MADE THE SUPREME SACRIFICE

IN THE

WORLD WAR

1914-1918

“GREATER LOVE HATH NO MAN.”

John 15:13

DOUGHBOY STATUE REDEDICATION

MAY 18, 1991

BARBARA ROBERTS

GOVERNOR

JON MANGIS

DIRECTOR, DEPARTMENT

OF VETERANS’ AFFAIRS

ORVILLE A. RUMMEL

PAST COMMANDER

VETERAN WORLD WAR I

The monument carries a list of Marion County residents who lost their lives in World War I. Here is the list, in the order they are listed on the monument (the first two columns are on one side, the next two on the other side, and the last column is on the back):

WILHELM E. AHLGREN

CARL E. ALLEMAN

LEONARD A. ASKIN

SMITH F. BALLARD

EMERY A. BARTLETT

FRANK J. BRASSEL

WILLIAM F. CATTON

ORA ETHEL CAVITT

HANS F. CHRISTOFFERSON

ROBERT E. CROSHAW

KENNETH C. CROSSAN

EDWIN H. DEETZ

JONAS DEETZ

FRED A. DERANLEAU

ERNEST T. ECKERLEN

FRED EHLEN

CHARLES S. FISHER

DAVID FORESMAN

JAMES E. GARDNER

GUS GARREN

ARCHIE R. GIBBENS

EDWARD GITTINS

EDWARD HARTFORD

NELS N. HERIGSTAD

HARLAN R. HOFFMAN

EARLE M. HUNT

MELVIN S. IVERSON

WAYNE C. JACKSON

JOHN JANZEN

DAYLE E. JOHNSON

AUBREY P. JONES

OLEN H. JONES

BASIL A. KIRSCH

JACOB KERBER

HERMAN J. KOLKANA

ALBERT A. LAMB

JOSEPH A. MARTIN

BEN G. McCLELLAND

HARRY MELBY

CLARENCE E. MILES

BENJAMIN F. MILLER

WILLIAM MILLER

CLARENCE S. MINKER

JOHN H. NEIGER

RAY U. NICHOLSON

EVERETT F. NORTON

ANTEN L. OLSON

ROBERT V. O’NEILL

WALKER PENCE

ALBERT W. PUGH

WILLIAM M. REED

DELBERT REEVES

PAUL RICH

TIMOTHY RICKMAN

ARCHIE D. ROBERTS

CHARLES RUSS

HENRY R. RYE

GLENN E. SCHAAP

WILLIAM C. SMITH

ERNEST J. SCHNIDER

EDWIN TANSON

STANLEY L. THOMPSON

BEN TOKSTAD

LESLIE O. TOOZE

NICK TROUDT

FRED M. UNGER

FAY Y. WALLING

BERT B. WHITEHEAD

CHESTER M. WILCOX

ALFRED W. WILLIS

CHARLES M. WOELKE

GEORGE W. ZIMMERLE

CHAS. AUER

PERRY W. BALDWIN

IVAN E. BELLINGER

HENRY T. BENNETT

JOHN LOU CASTEEL

GARRIE R. DWIRE

WILLIAM A. GUERNE

MILTON A. KOOREMAN

PAUL A. LORENZ

HARRY MASON

SIMON B. SPRINGER

CHESTER A. SIMMONS

THOMAS R. TOWNSEND

CURTIS W. WILLSON

GUS. ZOLLNER

OSCAR ZIMMERMAN

Additional Links:

Doughboy Memorial at Discover-Neighborhood-History

Adjacent to the World War I memorial is another pedestal with a plaque from the Veterans of World War I of the USA carrying the poem In Flanders Fields. The poem was written by Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae, M.D. of the Canadian Army on May 13, 1915. It refers to fields in Flanders, Belgium where war casualties were buried. Here is the text of the plaque:

WORLD WAR I

APRIL 6, 1917 – NOVEMBER 11, 1918

IN FLANDERS FIELDS

IN FLANDERS FIELD THE POPPIES GROW

BETWEEN THE CROSSES, ROW ON ROW,

THAT MARKS OUR PLACE; IN THE SKY

THE LARKS, STILL BRAVELY SINGING, FLY

SCARCE HEARD AMONG THE GUNS BELOW.

WE ARE THE DEAD. SHORT DAYS AGO

WE LIVED, FELT DAWN, SAW SUNSET GLOW,

LOVED AND WERE LOVED, AND NOW WE LIE

IN FLANDERS FIELDS.

TAKE UP OUR QUARREL WITH THE FOE;

TO YOU FROM FAILING HANDS WE THROW

THE TORCH; BE YOURS TO HOLD IT HIGH.

IF YE BREAK FAITH WITH US WHO DIE

WE SHALL NOT SLEEP, THOUGH POPPIES GROW

IN FLANDERS FIELDS.

B. Spanish-American War Memorial

The Spanish-American War Memorial is a bronze plaque that was presented by the National Auxiliary of United Spanish War Veterans Incorporated at their 35th annual convention in Portland, Oregon on September 11-15, 1938. It depicts a "Hiker of '98" and bears this quote from President McKinley: "You triumphed over obstacles which would have overcome men less brave and determined."

C. Medal of Honor Memorial

The Medal of Honor is the highest distinction which can be awarded to a member of the armed forces of the United States. It is presented by the President in the name of Congress to an individual who while serving in the armed forces distinguished himself conspicuously by gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. The Medal of Honor Memorial was dedicated in 1984. It is the oldest monument that was originally placed on this site. In addition to the monument, the memorial also includes the cedar trees behind it, each of which represents one of Oregon's Medal of Honor recipients. With the trees, the Medal of Honor Memorial is by far the largest of the memorials at the Veterans' Building. The monument is a replica of the Oregon State Monument in the Medal of Honor Grove Freedom Foundation at Valley Forge, Pennsylvania. The monument was cut from a block of granite which served as a step leading to the Oregon State Capitol Building.

OREGON

MEDAL OF HONOR

ROLL

CPT EDWARD C. ALLWORTH USA

SP4 LARRY G. DAHL USA

SGT JOHN N. HOLCOMB USA

PFC ARTHUR J. JACKSON USMC

SFC LOREN R. KAUFMAN USA

1LT CHARLES R. KILBOURNE USA

2LT DAVID R. KINGSLEY USAAF

PFC GARY W. MARTINI USMC

PVT MARCUS W. ROBERTSON USA

PFC STUART S. STRYKER USA

1SG MAXIMO YABES USA

SGT LEWIS PHIFE USA

PVT FRANK C. HIGH USA

The step was removed during construction of additions in 1975. In 1984, Oregon had 11 known Medal of Honor recipients. At the time, two of Oregon's early recipients, Lewis Phife and Frank C. High, were not known. Their names were added to the monument later. (Interestingly, Frank C. High received his Medal of Honor in 1899 for charging across a burning bridge under heavy fire in the Philippines with 21 other soldiers. One of those 21 others was fellow Medal of Honor recipient from Oregon Marcus W. Robertson, who received his medal for the same action, and was known in 1984.)

For more, see Oregon's Recipients of the Medal of Honor.

D. Veterans of Foreign Wars Memorial

The Veterans of Foreign Wars Memorial was designed by veteran Roger McGee. It was presented to the state of Oregon by the Department of Oregon Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States of America in 1986. It "is dedicated to all who have served in the armed forces of the United States and to those who even now guard the gates of freedom."

E. Korean War Memorial

The Korean War Memorial was sponsored by the Iron Triangle Chapter of the Korean War Veterans Association. It was dedicated in 1999. The memorial features a map of Korea, and the total number of allied casualties. The benches on each side list the allied nations involved in the war. Below is the text of the memorial and the two benches.

IN REMEMBRANCE

OF THE KOREAN WAR

June 25, 1950 – July 27, 1953

K O R E A

THE LAND OF THE MORNING CALM

Dedicated to those who served, fought and

sacrificed in the war for the freedom of the

people of Korea.

MILITARY CASUALTIES

The United States: 165,707

The Republic of Korea: 400,167

Other United Nations: 17,260

SPONSORED BY:

The Iron Triangle Chapter

Korean War Veterans

Association

THE UNITED STATES

AUSTRALIA, BELGIUM, CANADA, COLUMBIA,

DENMARK, ETHIOPIA, FRANCE, GREECE,

INDIA, ITALY, LUXEMBOURG

THE REPUBLIC OF KOREA

NETHERLANDS, NEW ZEALAND, NORWAY,

PHILLIPINES, SOUTH AFRICA, SWEDEN,

THAILAND, TURKEY, UNITED KINGDOM

The 1249th Engineer Battalion of the Oregon Army National Guard prepared the side and performed the concrete work for this Korean War Memorial. This small marker, placed somewhat away form the memorial and no doubt often going unnoticed, indicates their participation.

F. Afghan-Iraqi Freedom Memorial

The Afghan-Iraqi Freedom Memorial is the newest memorial at the veteran's building. With a fairly large fountain and a wall of the names of those lost, this large memorial dominates the site (technically the Medal of Honor Memorial is larger, but only if you include the trees). The memorial was sponsored by the Afghan-Iraqi Freedom Memorial Fund. President and Vice President Clay & MJ Kesterson lost their son Erik Kesterson in Iraq. Tim Mahalak served as Secretary and Treasurer. The memorial was created by architect Jane Honbeck, artist Judy Phipps and project manager Bill McMichael, with State Representative Donna Nelson. The memorial was dedicated "to all those from Oregon who served and to the heroes we lost" on November 11, 2006, in a ceremony with Governor Ted Kulongoski and Director of Veterans Affairs Jim Willis. When unveiled, the memorial fountain did not have a fence around it, but the fence was added soon after. The memorial's list of those lost is updated occasionally to keep it up to date. As of August 12, 2007, it read as follows:

AFGHAN-IRAQI FREEDOM MEMORIAL – Freedom Isn’t Free

Bryan P. Bertrand LCPL, USMC

Brandon S. Tobler SPC, USA

Frederick E. Pokerney, Jr. 1LT, USMC

Donald R. Walters SGT, USA POW

Gregory L. Stone MAJ, USAF

Aaron J. Contreras CAPT, USMC

Robert A. Stever SSG, USA

Joshua D. McIntosh HN, USN

Travis J. Bradach-Nall CPL, USMC

Christopher R. Willoughby SFC, USA

David S. Perry SSG, USA

Erik C. Kesterson WO1, USA

Joseph M. Blickenstaff SPC, USA

Christopher J. R. Wesley SPC, USA

Nathan W. Nakis SPC, USA

Eric F. Cooke CSM, USA

Travis A. Moothart SGT, USA

William C. Ramirez PFC,USA

Philip G. Rogers SPC,USA

Gary F. Van Leuven LCPL, USMC

Chase R. Whitham SPC,USA

Bob W. Roberts LCPL, USMC

Joseph A. Jeffries SPC, USA

Justin L. Eyerly SGT, USA

Justin W. Linden SPC, USA

Erik S. McCrae 1LT, USA

Eric S. McKinley SPC, USA

James B. Huston, Jr. LCPL, USMC

Bryan P. Kelly LCPL, USMC

Ken W. Liesten SPC, USA

Benjamin W. Isenberg SGT, USA

David J. Weisenburg SSG, USA

Aaron R. Boyles LCPL, USMC

David W. Johnson SGT, USA

Jeremy A. Christensen SPC, USA

David A. Mitts SGT, USA

Edwin W. Roodhouse SPC, USA

Damien T. Ficek SGT, USA

Nainoa K. Hoe 1LT, USA

James L. Moore CPL, USMC

Mark C. Warren SFC, USA

Adam J. Plumondore SGT, USA

Kevin D. Davis SSG, USA

Steven W. Thornton MAJ, USA

Kevin S.K. Wessel SPC, USA

Aaron A. Kent HN, USA

Ricky W. Rockholt, Jr. SPC, USA

Jacob M. Simpson SGT, USA

John B. Ogburn, III SSG, USA

Jeffrey A. Lucas ET1, USN

Tane T. Baum SSG, USA

Adrian B. Stump WO1, USA

Vernon R. Widner SPC, USA

Tyler J. Troyer LCPL, USMC

William B. Meeuwsen SGT, USA

John M. Holmason LCPL, USA

Michael S. Zyla SSG, USA

Ryan D. Walker SPC, USA

Marques J. Nettles HM3, USA

Jeremy M. Loveless CPL, USA

Robert L. Jones SPC, USA

Thomas L. Tucker PFC, USA POW

Jason M. Evey SSG, USA

Christopher T. Pate CAPT, USMC

Marc A. Lee AO2, USA

Joseph R. Blake PVT, USA

Randy L. Newman LCPL, USMC

Richard J. Henkes, II SFC, USA

Robert J. Paul SSG, USA

Nathaniel B. Lindsey SGT, USA

Chase A. Haag CPL, USA

Dean R. Bright PFC, USA

Derek W. Jones LCPL, USMC

Douglas C. DesJardins SPC, USA

Billy B. Farris CPL, USA

Brennan C. Gibson SGT, USA

Sean P. Fennerty SGT, USA

Ryan J. Hill SPC, USA

Brian A. Browning SPC, USA

Long N. Nguyen SGT, USA

Nathanial D. Windsor LCPL, USMC

John S. Stephens SFC, USA

Nicholas J. Lightner SGT, USA

Brett A. Walton PFC, USA

Michael L. Vaughn SGT, USA

Dale G. Peterson LCPL, USMC

The Governor's Office maintains a current list. See Oregon's Most Honorable.

For more, see Unveiling the Afghan-Iraqi Freedom Memorial.

Additional Links:

Oregon Department of Veteran Affairs at Salem Historical Quarterly

15. State Archive Building

800 Summer Street NE

The Oregon State Archive Building opened in 1991. The two story building contains 50,000 square feet or area and features underground parking for 26 vehicles. The exterior is made of marble and granite. Engraved in the exterior walls and the surrounding pavement are several quotes relates to Oregon. They are as follows:

WITHIN

ARE RECORDED

THE COMMON WORDS

OF THE

UNCOMMON PEOPLE

OF THE STATE OF OREGON

Whereas,

the women of Oregon, after long and patient effort,

have persuaded the men of the state

to place them upon a footing of political equality

by granting them the right of suffrage…

On death of wife

his mind became affected,

and he abandoned land,

left all his effects

except clothes he wore,

horse he rode.

We all had to walk.

Sometimes I had to put by babe on the ground

and help to keep the wagon from turning over.

Often I would be behind, out of sight of the wagon,

tugging and carrying my little ones along.

More fiddles

than Bibles,

more cards

than hymns,

more dirks & pistols

than books

for the cultivation

of morals…

& you will find

that it is not such an awful thing

to cross the Cascades afterall,

altho it may appear,

that some of the hills

will have no end

to the going down part.

Crossed the big Nemaha,

a dangerous stream…

encamped for the night…

broke two ox yokes

ascending the bank of the stream.

I am greatly sore and tired

having come all day across these dark Mountains

in unending

rain.

Mill creek flows between the State Archive Building and the Veterans' Building. A trail along the State Archive Building's side of the creek is part of the Mill Creek Watershed Education Program, which was funded in part by the Oregon State Lottery and the U. S. Environmental Protection Agency through the Governor's Watershed Enhancement Board.

16. State Lands Building

775 Summer Street NE

The State Lands Building, home of Oregon Department of State Lands, was built in 1990. It's brick facade is somewhat unusual among State Buildings in Salem.

Behind the State Lands Building is this Salmon Viewing Terrace overlooking Mill Creek. The Division of State Lands Salmon Viewing Terrace is an Oregon Arts Commission project designed by Tad Savinar with Walker & Macy landscape architects. It was built in 1990 through a donation from Boise Cascade. The terrace is associated with the Salmon and Trout Enhancement Project (STEP) demonstration project, built by the Association of Northwest Steelheaders and the Boise Cascade Corporation, in cooperation with the Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife. Two quotes are embedded in the pavement:

Even the seasons form

A great circle in their changing

And always come back

To where they were

Black Elk

The essence of geology is this

The top of Mount Everest

Is made of marine limestone

John McPhee

17. North Capitol Mall Office Building

725 Summer Street NE

Oregon's North Capitol Mall Office Building was built in 2003. The 115,000 square foot building includes sustainable design features that earned it LEED Gold Certification from the United States Green Building Council.

The North Capitol Mall Office Building features this outdoor sculpture. It as called Sampo and was created by Lee Imonen. It is built out of salvaged area lumber.

North of the State Lands Building and the North Capitol Mall Office Building is the North Mall Heritage Park, which consists of a group of seven historic homes that have been converted to office space. They have been available to state agencies since January 2004.

Additional Links:

New Office Space Available from the Oregon Department of Administrative Services (PDF)

North Capitol Mall Heritage Park at Discover-Neighborhood-History

18. Stiff-Jarmin House

796 Winter Street NE

The Stiff-Jarmin House is an English Cottage style house built in 1929. It was the home of former Governors Tom McCall and Victor Atiyeh. It features approximately 1,901 square feet of space on the first floor and 1,274 square feet on the second floor.

Additional Links:

Stiff House at Discover-Neighborhood-History

Historical Photos:

Stiff-Jarmin House, 1978 (Salem Public Library)

Stiff-Jarmin House, 1987 (Salem Public Library)

19. Perry House

880 Winter Street NE

The Perry House is a colonial revival style house. It features approximately 1,322 square feet of space on the first floor and 968 square feet on the second floor. It currently houses the Mid-Valley Cancer Care Community.

20. Ford House

810 D Street NE

The Ford House is an English Cottage style stucco house. It features approximately 1,923 square feet of space on the first floor and 1,128 square feet on the second floor. It is home to the Oregon Health & Science University's Northwest Frontier Addiction Technology Transfer Center.

21. Huntington House

830 D Street NE

The Huntington House is an English Tudor style house built in 1925. It features approximately 932 square feet of space on the first floor and 912 square feet on the second floor. It was originally located at 250 Summer Street. It was moved to 790 Winter Street in 1937 and was moved here in 2002.

Additional Links:

Huntington House at Discover-Neighborhood-History

22. Irwin House

850 D Street NE

The Irwin House is an English Cottage/Tudor style house built around 1936. It features approximately 1,236 square feet of space on the first floor and 948 square feet on the second floor. It is in its original location.

Additional Links:

Irwin House at Discover-Neighborhood-History

Historical Photos:

Irwin House, 1978 (Salem Public Library)

23. Adolfson House

870 D Street NE

The Adolfson House is an English Cottage style house built in 1936. It features approximately 1,292 square feet of space on the first floor and 688 square feet on the second floor. It is in its original location.

Additional Links:

Adolfson House at Discover-Neighborhood-History

24. McGilchrist House

885 Summer Street NE

The McGilchrist House is a colonial revival house, built for William McGilchrist Jr. in 1917 and home to three Oregon Governors including Robert D. Holmes from 1957 to 1959. It features 1,469 square feet of feet on the first floor and 1,036 square feet on the second. It contains the Government Standards and Practices Commission and Criminal Justice Commission.

Additional Links:

McGilchrist House at Discover-Neighborhood-History

25. Mahonia Hall

533 Lincoln Street S

This half-timber Tudor style mansion was designed by Ellis F. Lawrence and built in 1923-1924 as the home of Thomas A. Livesley and his wife Edna. It was sold the the state of Oregon in 1988 to become the Governor's Mansion. Previous Governors were responsible for their own housing. The mansion was named Mahonia Hall after the Latin name of Oregon's state flower, the Oregon Grape. It was placed on the National Register of Historic Places on April 26, 1990. Neil Goldschmidt was the first Oregon governor to live here.

Additional Links:

Thomas A. Livesley at Salem Online History

Livesley House at Discover-Neighborhood-History

Historical Photos:

Portrait of Thomas A. Livesley (Oregon State Library)

Mahonia Hall, unknown date (Salem Public Library)

Mahonia Hall Great Room, 1988 (Salem Public Library)

Mahonia Hall Great Room Curtains, 1988 (Salem Public Library)

Mahonia Hall Dining Room, 1988 (Salem Public Library)

Mahonia Hall, 1992 (Salem Public Library)

26. Oregon State Penitentiary

2605 State Street

The Oregon State Penitentiary was Oregon's first state institution. It initially opened in Portland in 1851. It was established in Salem in 1866 and has operated on the same site ever since.

Additional Links:

Oregon State Penitentiary at Salem Online History

Historical Photos:

Oregon State Penitentiary, unknown date (Oregon State Library)

Oregon State Penitentiary, 1880s (Salem Public Library)

Oregon State Penitentiary, 1903 (Oregon State Library)

Oregon State Penitentiary, unknown date (Oregon State Library)

Oregon State Penitentiary, 1940s (Salem Public Library)

Oregon State Penitentiary Dormitory, October 12, 1941 (Salem Public Library)

Oregon State Penitentiary, post-1968 (Salem Public Library)

27. Oregon State Hospital

2600 Center Street NE

The Oregon State Insane Asylum opened on October 23, 1883. The name changed to Oregon State Hospital in 1913. Cascade Hall, also known as the "J Building" for its footprint's shape, was built in 1883 as the the hospital's original building. A narrow gauge railroad connected the hospital by tunnels to the Capitol Building and the Oregon State Penitentiary. The building was extended in 1899 and is still used by the hospital. The Oregon State Hospital Historic District was put on the National Register of Historic Places on February 28, 2008. In late 2008 a major construction project began that will demolish much of Cascade Hall; the rest will be renovated.

Historical Photos:

Oregon State Hospital - Cascade Hall, 1886 (Salem Public Library)

Oregon State Hospital - Cascade Hall, unknown date (Oregon State Library)

Oregon State Hospital - Cascade Hall, 1903 (Oregon State Library)

Oregon State Hospital - Cascade Hall, circa 1905 (Salem Public Library)

Oregon State Hospital - Cascade Hall, unknown date (Oregon State Library)

Oregon State Hospital - Cascade Hall, August 1940 (Salem Public Library)

Aerial View of Oregon State Hospital, August 1940 (Salem Public Library)

Oregon State Hospital's Dome Building was built in 1912. The Dome Building portrayed the mental hospital in the 1975 Jack Nicholson film adaptation of Ken Kesey's 1962 novel One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest.

Historical Photos:

Oregon State Hospital - Dome Building, August 1940 (Salem Public Library)

Oregon State Hospital - Dome Building, unknown date (Oregon State Library)

Steiner's Chimney was originally built in 1910 as the chimney for the hospital's incinerator. It is named after Dr. Lee Steiner, who had it built. It is now connected to the power plant

This building was the previously used as the Salem Rehabilitation Facility. It is to be demolished to make way for the new construction.

Here are a few of the other buildings on the grounds of the Oregon State Hospital.

Santiam Hall

McKenzie Hall

Eola Hall

Additional Links:

Oregon State Hospital at Salem Online History

Oregon State Hospital during the 1960s from Oregon Historical Quarterly

Preserve Historic Salem

Oregon State Hospital Replacement Project

Oregon State Insane Asylum gallery by "unkannyvalley" on Flickr

Oregon State Hospital Demolition at Salem Heritage Network on April 12, 2009

28. Fairview Training Center

The Oregon State Institute for the Feeble Minded was established by the Oregon State Legislature in 1908 and opened on December of that year. The name was changed in 1935 to Oregon Fairview Home. It was renamed Fairview Hospital & Training Center in 1965 and the name was simplified to Fairview Training Center in 1979. The facility treated patients who weren't quite insane, but couldn't fully function on their own. Many of the residents were children. The facility's able-bodied residents grew the facility's own food on site and were trained in useful skills. The 270-acre site was made up of 60 buildings and housed as many as 3,000 residents. The Fairview Training Center closed after the last resident left on February 24, 2000.

The main halls of the facility were called "cottages." I don't know much about them, except that LeBreton was the first, built in 1908, but here are pictures of a few of them.

LeBreton

Cottage

Chamberlain

Cottage

Withycombe

Cottage

Kozer

Cottage

Smith

Cottage

A 32-acre portion of the property is being converted into the Pringle Creek Community. The sustainable development will include community gardens, parks, mixed-use and community buildings, rowhouses, cottages, live-work lofts and single-family homes, all LEED certified. Twelve of the 32 ares are set aside for green space. The community will also include a Sustainable Living Center, a community-based educational nonprofit providing classes, workshops and activities. The community was named Land Development of the Year by the National Association of Home Builders.

The Painters' Hall was built in 1938 and was used as the paint shop for the entire Fairview Training Center. It served as the temporary home of the Sustainable Living Center. Plans called for it to be retrofitted to a LEED Platinum Village Store & Coffeehouse with a full length front porch and trellis.

The Carpentry Building was the home of woodworking and carpentry services for the entire Fairview site. It was scheduled to become the temporary home of the Sustainable Living Center and the Pringle Creek Community sales office while the Painters' Hall was renovated. It would then be renovated into a LEED Platinum restaurant and deli with outdoor dining.

This building was built in 1937. At the time it was the Root House, a brick storehouse used to store crops. The building maintains a constant temperature, which was ideal for storing crops like potatoes, onion and beets. Because that quality also makes it ideal for storing wine, it will be used as a wine cellar & will house the Pringle Creek Wine Guild for storage and events. Eventually, it will be seismically retrofitted for new uses.

The sawdust building was originally used to store wood waste that was burned in the boilers that generated steam heat for the entire Fairview campus. It is temporarily being used as a staging area for construction materials. Two-thirds of the space will be “infilled” with new mixed-use buildings, while the remaining third will be remodeled as one-of-a-kind open-air pavilion.

These two Victorian-style greenhouses were built in the 1950’s and 60’s. They are being restored to become the Pringle Creek Garden Center, part of the Pringle Creek Sustainable Living Center.

A prominent feature of the former Fairview site that is becoming the Pringle Creek Community is this tall brick smokestack, which is no longer attached to a building.

This cottage at 1826 Cousteau Loop South is the first new building in the Pringle Creek Community. Completed in 2007, it is also the first LEED Platinum house in the Pacific Northwest and only the fifth in the nation. (There are about 70 other LEED-certified homes in Oregon, but all are at the lower Silver level.) The 2-bedroom, 2-bath cottage features 1,346 square feet of living area. EnergyStar windows with low-E glass and passive solar screens on southern exposures, rooftop photovoltaic solar panels for electricity and solar panels to preheat water before it enters the water heater, and rainwater harvesting and storage for landscaping irrigation. The interior features Pacific Madrone hardwood flooring, 100% wool carpeting, natural quartz countertops, geothermal heat pump and fire sprinkler system. It is for sale for $432,000.

Additional Links:

Fairview Training Center at Salem Online History

Farewell Fairview from the Oregon Clarion, April 2000

Fairview Training Center gallery by "unkannyvalley" on Flickr

29. Oregon School for the Blind

700 Church Street SE

The Oregon School for the Blind was established in 1872. It provides educational opportunities to children in the state who are without sight or have too little vision to make satisfactory progress in public school classes. The school is located on 8.5 acres that Asahel Bush II donated to the state in 1880 for use in educating the disabled. It was originally used by the Oregon State School for the Deaf. When that school moved to East Salem in 1894, the School for the Blind took over the property, and has remained there ever since.

The main building of the Oregon School for the Blind is Irvine Hall. It was built in the 1950s, replacing a very old wooden school building that was considered a fire hazard.

Historical Photos:

Irvine Hall, 1970 (Salem Public Library)

Howard Hall is a dormitory that I believe was built in 1923.

Historical Photos:

Howard Hall, 1945-1965 (Salem Public Library)

Additional Links:

Oregon State School for the Blind at Salem Online History

30. Marion County Courthouse

100 High Street NE

Salem is the County seat of Marion County. Marion County was created as the Champoick District by the Provisional Government Legislative Committee on July 5, 1843, six years before Oregon became a U.S. Territory and 16 years before statehood. In 1847, the name was changed to Marion County in honor of Revolutionary War hero General Francis Marion, who was known as the "Swamp Fox.” Marion County's present boundaries were established in 1856. The county measures 1,175 square miles and the elevation at Salem in 159 feet above sea level.

Marion County has had three courthouses, all on the same property, donated by William H. Willson in the 1840s. The first courthouse was a 68 foot by 40 foot wood frame building constructed in 1854. It was moved off the site in 1871 to make room for its successor and survived into the 20th century as a livery stable.

Historical Photos:

Marion County Courthouse, 1854-1871 (Oregon State Library)

The second courthouse was completed in 1873 by architect and contractor Wilbur F. Boothby, with W. W. Piper serving as supervising architect. The 34,710 square foot French Renaissance Victorian courthouse was 136 feet tall with 33-inch thick brick walls, a dormered mansard roof, and a 51-foot cupola containing a four-faced clock and topped with a statue of Lady Justice. A World War Memorial was placed in front of the courthouse in 1924. By the 1930s, the county was outgrowing the courthouse, but the Great Depression and World War II delayed construction.

Historical Photos:

Marion County Courthouse, 1885 (Salem Public Library)

Marion County Courthouse, circa 1890 (Oregon State Library)

Marion County Courthouse, unknown date (Salem Public Library)

Marion County Courthouse, 1903 (Oregon State Library)

Marion County Courthouse, 1903-1924 (Virginia@Picasa)

Marion County Courthouse, circa 1907 (Salem Public Library)

Marion County Courthouse, unknown date (Salem Public Library)

Marion County Courthouse, 1913 (Salem Public Library)

Marion County Courthouse, early 1920s (Salem Public Library)

Marion County Courthouse, 1928-1932 (Salem Public Library)

Marion County Courthouse, 1939 (Salem Public Library)

Marion County Courthouse, 1940-1945 (Salem Public Library)

Marion County Courthouse, 1945 (Salem Public Library)

Marion County Courthouse, unknown date (Salem Public Library)

Marion County Courthouse, 1942-1952 (Salem Public Library)

Marion County Courthouse Entry Columns, 1942-1952 (Salem Public Library)

Marion County Courthouse Clock Tower Detail, 1942-1952 (Salem Public Library)

Marion County Courthouse, 1950 (Salem Public Library)

Marion County Courthouse, April 15, 1951 (Salem Public Library)

Marion County Courthouse 4th Floor Details, 1951 (Salem Public Library)

Marion County Courthouse Clock Tower, 1951 (Salem Public Library)

Marion County Courthouse, 1952 (Salem Public Library)

Marion County Courthouse Bell, circa 1952 (Salem Public Library)

Though some thought was given to locating the new courthouse on a different site in order to preserve the historic old building, it was demolished in the summer of 1952 to make way for a new courthouse on the same site. The clock was installed in the tower of the nearby Salem City Hall, while the 10-foot tall, 900 pound hollow copper statue of Lady Justice went to Willamette University's law school.

Historical Photos:

Marion County Courthouse Bell Removal, 1952 (Salem Public Library)

Marion County Courthouse Statue Removal, June 24, 1952 (Salem Public Library)

Marion County Courthouse Demolition, June 26, 1952 (Salem Public Library)

Marion County Courthouse Demolition, 1952 (Salem Public Library)

Marion County Courthouse Demolition ,1952 (Salem Public Library)

Construction of the new courthouse commenced promptly, and it was dedicated on June 18, 1954. The modern building is clad in white Vermont marble to match many of the state buildings nearby. Landscaping was designed by Elizabeth Lord and Edith Schryver. The World War I Memorial was moved to the Oregon Veterans' Building in 1991.

Historical Photos:

Marion County Courthouse Under Construction, 1952-1954 (Salem Public Library)

Marion County Courthouse, 1955 (Salem Public Library)

Marion County Courthouse, 1955-1965 (Salem Public Library)

Marion County Courthouse, 1961 (Salem Public Library)

Marion County Courthouse, May 21, 1964 (Salem Public Library)

Marion County Courthouse, unknown date (Salem Public Library)

Marion County Courthouse, unknown date (Oregon State Library)

Additional Links:

Marion County Courthouse at Salem Online History

Marion County Courthouse at the Salem Oregon Community Guide

View of the Marion County Courthouse at the Salem Oregon Community Guide

31. Courthouse Square

200 High Street NE

This was originally the site of the Derby Building, which was built around 1915. The Derby Building housed the Senator Hotel, and the ground floor was home to Hewitt's Mens Wear in the 1950s and Equitable Savings & Loan in the 1970s. By the 1990s, Marion County was outgrowing the Marion County Courthouse across Court Street. Courthouse Square was completed in October, 2000. The $34,000,000 LEED-certified building contains 152,000 square feet of space, including offices for Marion County and the Salem Transit District and 10,000 square feet of street level retail space. The rest of the block is filled by the R. G. Andersen-Wyckoff Transit Mall.

Additional Links:

Courthouse Square at Salem Online History

Historical Photos:

Derby Building, 1915 (Salem Public Library)

Derby Building, post 1957 (Salem Public Library)

Derby Building, May 2, 1973 (Salem Public Library)

32. Old Salem City Hall Site

277 Liberty Street NE

This corner was originally the site of a boarding house. The city of Salem purchased it in 1893 and built the city's first official City Hall, (though unofficial city halls had been located in various places downtown). The new City Hall was designed by W. D. Pugh. The Victorian Gothic building featured a 136-foot clock tower, though no clock was installed when the building was new. After the Marion County Courthouse was demolished in 1952, its clock was installed in Salem's City Hall. A fire bell was also mounted on the roof in 1894. After the construction of the Vern W. Miller Civic Center, the old City Hall was demolished in the summer of 1972. The flag pole and fire bell were moved to the fire station at the new Civic Center, while the clock found a third home at the railroad depot in Mount Angel, Oregon. This small monument, which includes the original cornerstone plaque from the old City Hall, was erected in 1989.

Additional Links:

Old Salem City Hall at Salem Online History

Historical Photos:

Old Salem City Hall (Oregon State Library)

Salem City Hall, unknown date (Salem Public Library)

Salem City Hall, circa 1900 (Salem Public Library)

Salem City Hall, 1903 (Oregon State Library)

Salem City Hall, 1950-1955 (Salem Public Library)

Salem City Hall, July 16, 1953 (Salem Public Library)

Salem City Hall, 1959 (Salem Public Library)

Salem City Hall, 1959 (Virginia@Picasa)

Salem City Hall Tower Clock, unknown date (Salem Public Library)

Salem City Hall Clock Tower, 1962 (Salem Public Library)

Salem City Hall, 1965 (Salem Public Library)

Salem City Hall, 1970 (Salem Public Library)

Salem City Hall, May 14, 1971 (Salem Public Library)

Salem City Hall, June 1972 (Salem Public Library)

Salem City Hall, July 29, 1972 (Salem Public Library)

Salem City Hall Bell Removal, August 10, 1972 (Salem Public Library)

Salem City Hall Demolition, August 13, 1972 (Salem Public Library)

Salem City Hall Demolition, 1972 (Virginia@Picasa)

33. Carnegie Public Library

State Street at Winter Street SE

The Salem Public Library was established by the Salem Women's Club in 1903, and it opened in a room of the high school in 1904. This lot was purchased for the library in May 1909. In November 1910, the Women's Club applied for a $27,500 grant from the Carnegie Foundation for a library building, and started a fundraising drive to match the Carnegie Grant. In September 1912, the new $55,000 Salem Public Library opened. The building remained in use as a library until 1972, when the new library at the Civic Center opened, with 20 times the floor space. The building was used by the Salem YWCA until 2005. Willamette University purchased it, with plans to refurbish it into the Willamette College of Law's Oregon Civic Justice Center by October, 2008.

Additional Links:

Salem Public Library at Salem Online History

Historical Photos:

Carnegie Public Library, 1912 (Salem Public Library)

Carnegie Public Library, April 1955 (Salem Public Library)

Carnegie Public Library, 1962 (Salem Public Library)

34. Vern W. Miller Civic Center

555 Liberty Street SE

The Vern W. Miller Civic Center complex was dedicated on August 18, 1972. It is named after Salem's mayor at the time of its construction. It was designed by the architecture firm of Payne/Settecase/Smith with Donald W. Richardson and Charles Hawkes and was built by Hoffman Construction Company. It consists of Salem's City Hall, Public Library and Main Fire Station, which are all separate buildings. This is the City Hall section. The interior features a large semi-open air courtyard, covered of course, because this is Oregon and weather like that in the pictures isn't typical most of the year.

Historical Photos:

Interior of Salem Civic Center, circa 1972 (Salem Public Library)

On the north side of the City Hall is a large manmade pond, filled with water diverted from nearby Pringle Creek, which the pond empties back into.

Posted in the pond is this sculpture. Great Blue Heron was sculpted by Robert Hess. It was a gift from the Pioneer Trust Bank Foundation and is in memory of Helen Pearce and Dorothy Pearce.

Natural waterfowl can be found at the civic center as well, such as this Mallard Duck going for a swim.

Though waster is diverted from Pringle Creek for the manmade pond, the natural creek remains as well. Near where the pond flows back into the creek, the millrace from Mill Creek empties into Pringle Creek as well.

The plaza on the south side of city hall is named Peace Plaza (Salem's name is an old term for peace). It includes a mural and a stainless steel fountain sculpture by James Hansen called Crescent Probe.

On this side of the city hall are listed the people involved in creating the Salem Civic Center.

SALEM CIVIC CENTER

IN GRATEFUL APPRECIATION

OF THE FOLLOWING PEOPLE

WHOSE EFFORTS HELPED MAKE

THE CIVIC CENTER POSSIBLE

CIVIC BUILDING COMMITTEE – 1968

J. WESLEY SULLIVAN, CHAIRMAN

LAVON ARMPRIEST

PETER J. BATTEN, M.D.

WELLS BAUM, M.D.

SHEILA BEBOUT

GEORGE BIRRELL

HARRY CARSON, JR.

WALLACE P. CARSON, JR.

TRAVIS CROSS

CURTIS CULVER

CHARLES DODD

CLARENCE FREY

PETER H. GEISER

WARD GRAHAM

SAM R. HALEY

JAMES G. HELTZEL

DON G. HERRING

GENE HUNTLEY

LEONARD KREMEN

WILLIAM MAINWARING

ELLEN LOWE

MEREDITH MILLS

ROBERT OHMART

DR. HELEN PEARCE

HAROLD D. ROBERTSON

BARBARA SEYMOUR

EDGAR H. WHITT

CIVIC CENTER BOND COMMITTEE – 1970

KAROL KOFORD, CO-CHAIRMAN

FLOYD BOWERS, CO-CHAIRMAN

WALLACE CARSON, JR.

GERALD FRANK

JOHN GLASCOCK

WARD GRAHAM

J. WESLEY SULLIVAN

CHRISTINA HEFTY

DONALD HERING

GENE HUNTLEY

EX-OFFICIO MEMBERS

VERN W. MILLER, M.D., MAYOR

JAMES W. TINDALL

ROBERT C. CANNON

WAYNE W. GORDON

ROBERT E. LINDSEY

VERN HEMMER

SAVILLE T. FORD

RICHARD D. LEE

C.T. “CUB” HOUCK

J. WARREN CARKIN

WALTER R. HEINE

EDWARD ROTH

EMERSON B. PAGE

JOSEPH F. FITZPATRICK, PROJECT COORDINATOR

CIVIC GIFTS AND MEMORIALS COMMITTEE

JOSEPH DODD, CHAIRMAN

WELLS W. BAUM, M.D.

FLOYD K. BOWERS

GERALD W. FRANK

MARTIN FRANZ

FRANK HRUBETZ

VERN W. MILLER, M.D., MAYOR

ROBERT S. MOORE

J. WESLEY SULLIVAN

KENNETH SHERMAN

C.A. “AL” SCHAEFER

DR. HELEN PEARCE

CIVIC CENTER DEDICATION

GERALD W. FRANK, CO-CHAIRMAN

DORIS BARGER, CO-CHAIRMAN

RUSS ABOLT

HERBERT BARKER

HARRY CARSON, JR.

ED DOUGHERTY

JOSEPH DODD

JOY EOFF

E.J. HARM

COL. LEONARD HICKS

WALLY HUNTER

REV. H.B. LONDON, JR.

AL LOUCKS

VERN W. MILLER, M.D., MAYOR

DEL MILNE
ROBERT S. MOORE

JORDIS SCHICK

SUE STANFORD

J. WESLEY SULLIVAN

PAT VALENTINO

These three flagpoles in the plaza were presented by Mr. & Mrs. Donald J. Madison on August 18, 1972. The Salem flag was a gift of Salem Federal Savings & Loan, sponsors of the Salem City Flag Competition. The Oregon flag was a gift of Governor Tom L. McCall and the American flag was a gift of Senator Mark O. Hatfield.

Another part of Peace Plaza is this wall, which is made of of peace-related quotes on small metal plaques sponsored by area citizens. Peace Plaza was conceived in 1983. The larger enameled glass panels are an installation called Galaxies by Liz Mapelli. It was "dedicated to furthering peace in our time" on September 30, 1988. The United Nations flag was added in 1989, though other flags are flown occasionally as well. The flagpole is dedicated to the memory of Hayes Bell (August 21, 1910-September 10, 1989). His Dream: “Let us become one world, hand to hand, traveling in the footsteps of fellowship and peace.”

For more, see Peace Plaza Quotes.

The Salem Public Library is on the south side of Peace Plaza. In front of the library building is a Friendship Garden, a gift to Salem by various other cities in Oregon.

Friendship Garden

Gift of the Cities of Oregon to the Salem Community

1972

Beaverton

Boardman

Canby

Coos Bay

Corvallis

Dallas

Detroit

Drain

Elkton

Enterprise

Eugene

Fairview

Gearhart

Gresham

Hermiston

Hubbard

Jefferson

Lafayette

Lowell

McMinnville

Milwaukie

Monmouth

Monument

Mount Angel

Mt. Vernon

Oregon City

Pendleton

Philomath

Redmond

Roseburg

Sandy

Scappoose

Stayton

Sutherlin

Troutdale

Tualatin

Turner

The main entrance to the Salem Public Library is on the south side of the building. Nearby is a sculpture of two dear. In a Quiet Meadow was created by Delbert "Del" Lloyd Hodges (June 14, 1940 – December 14, 1999). It was donated by Mrs. Carl F. Gerlinger in 1972. It was restored by Vern Golay, Greg Rowe and Max Chapin and was rededicated on September 23, 2000.

On the north side of Pringle Creek is Salem's Main Fire Station. On display in front is Salem's 2,000-pound Fire Bell, which was cast by Meneely & Company of West Troy, New York in 1882. It was originally mounted on a tower behind the 200 block of North High Street. It was moved to the roof of Salem's City Hall in 1897. The bell was used to call Salem's firefighters to fires until 1924. The bell was put on display here in May, 1976.

Historical Photos:

Fire Station June 25, 1971 (Salem Public Library)

Additional Links:

The Development of Salem's Civic Center from Salem Online History

Salem Civic Center Art Collection from Salem Online History

35. Riverfront Park

The land that is now Salem Riverfront Park was originally a wintering site for the Kalapuya Indians. At the turn of the 20th century it was industrial land. Early industries here included Capital Lumbering, Matheny's Wharf and Warehouse and Salem Flour Milling. Until 1982, this land was occupied by the Boise Cascade Corporation's pulp mill. The city of Salem acquired the land from Boise Cascade in the 1980s. Salem Riverfront Park opened in October, 1996.

Historical Photos:

Aerial view of Salem Waterfront showing Boise Cascade Mill (Salem Heritage Network)

The Rotary Children's Playground was "dedicated for the enjoyment of the children in our community" in November, 1997. It was made possible by the efforts of the Capital Area Sunrise, East Salem, Salem, Salem-Creekside, South Salem and West Salem Rotary Clubs.

Additional Links:

Salem Rotary Club at Salem Online History

Wild Salmon in Every Direction was dedicated on June 26, 1999 during the World Beat Festival. It coincided with contributions by Portland General Electric and Northwest Natural Gas to establish the Riverfront Park amphitheater. The wild salmon represent a link between people of the past and the future. The plaque includes the following quote from D. F. Charles: “In our voices and deeds, the echoes of a great river.”

Salem's Riverfront Carousel opened in June, 2001, after 4.5 years of work. A total of 43 horses and two wagons were carved. 32 horses and two foals ride the carousel at one time. Each horse took an average of 700 hours to carve and sand, and over 200 hours to apply the three coats of primer, three coats of oil paint, and six coats of clear polyurethane, for a total of 80,000 hours put in by 160 volunteers.

This bronze sculpture of a carousel horse is outside in front Salem's Riverfront Carousel. Morning Glory was sculpted by Dick Spirup and was cast at Joseph Bronze. It was adopted by Helen & Carl Gerlinger, Mary Gerlinger and Ron & Ann Lyman & family.

At the south end of Riverfront Park is an overlook that provides a view of Pringle Creek emptying into Willamette Slough, which leads into the Willamette River.

Mounted on the fence at this overlook is a small plaque dedicated to the victims of September 11, 2001. It reads: "This is memorial is dedicated to the thousands of people from throughout the world who lost their lives as a consequence of the terrorist acts of September 11, 2001. May peace prevail on earth."

The Eco-Earth, unveiled in 2003, started as an asphalt-covered stainless steel acid ball, used by the Boise Cascade Corporation to hold a caustic mixture of acids used in the bleaching process of paper making when a paper mill was located here. In 1964, floodwaters reached the acid ball and floated it off its foundation and into the Willamette River; the sudden change in pressure caused it to implode. It was retrieved and repaired after the flood, but substantial wrinkles remained in the stainless steel surface. When the City of Salem purchased the land for Riverfront Park, there were no specific plans for the acid ball. Salem mayor Roger Gertenrich accepted suggestions for what to do with it, and the Eco-Earth idea was agreed on. With a diameter of 25 feet, Eco-Earth forms a globe with a scale of about 1:1,600,000 (in comparison, most classroom globes have a scale of about 1:42,000,000). The real Earth is actually an oblate spheroid and is slightly flattened at the poles; Eco-Earth is more spherical. The surface is covered by 86,115 two-inch tiles (counted by Jule Youngren), including 2,810 in the icons and 716 on the pillars. expansion joints installed by engineers allow the stainless steel ball to expand and contract without popping the tiles off the surface. The tiles were designed, painted and glazed by artists. The icons depict animals, cultures, religions, historic events, technology and mythical creatures, and were designed by local artists and teachers and students from local high schools including Chemawa and William P. Lord High School. Nelson Mandela of South Africa is the only political figure depicted. Hundreds of of volunteer citizens, including artists, sculptors and tile setters, were involved in the project. Pence/Kelly Construction, Inc. and the 1249^th Engineer Battalion of the Oregon Army National Guard were involved in the construction. A time capsule has been placed at the Eco-Earth to be opened on Earth Day 2054.

Additional Links:

Eco-Earth at the Salem Oregon Community Guide

This overlook and dock were completed in 2005. The dock is the boarding point for the Willamette Queen, an 87-foot sternwheeler that was built in Newport, Oregon in 1990 and has a capacity of 90 people. The Willamette Queen takes passenger on one-hour and two-hour pleasure cruises on the Willamette River.

Additional Links:

Willamette Queen at the Salem Oregon Community Guide

For more about Riverfront Park, see Flags of Honor.

Additional Links:

Riverfront Park at the Salem Oregon Community Guide

Riverfront Park Walking Tour by TNji at Picasa Web Albums

36. Garfield School

528 Cottage Street NE

Garfield School was designed by architect Fred Legg and was built in 1909. It was the first brick & concrete elementary school in Salem. It closed in 1973 and was empty for a year before being converted to offices. It was placed on the National Register of Historic Places on December 2, 1981.

Additional Links:

Garfield School at Discover-Neighborhood-History

Historical Photos:

Garfield School, unknown date (Salem Public Library)

Garfield School, 1945-1965 (Salem Public Library)

Garfield School, June 1978 (Salem Public Library)

37. McKinley School

466 McGilchrist Street SE

McKinley Elementary School was completed in 1915 at cost of $20,128 and opened in the fall of that year. Declining enrollment closed McKinley after two years. An influenza outbreak after World War I led to the building being converted to a 50-bed hospital. It was turned back into a school in 1920 when it opened as a junior high. It became an elementary school again in 1927 and remains one today. Additional classrooms were built in 1949 and 1959, a music room and gymnasium were added in 1978 and a library was added in 1980.

Additional Links:

McKinley Elementary School at Salem Online History

Historical Photos:

McKinley School, 1915-1916 (Salem Public Library)

McKinley School, 1930-1990 (Salem Public Library)

38. Salem Heights School

3495 Liberty Street S

The first Salem Heights School was established in 1907. The original school house was demolished in 1930 and the current Salem Heights Elementary School opened in 1931. The school's historic bell was housed for years in the nearby Salem Heights Hall, but was reinstalled in 2007 in time for the schools 100th anniversary on May 3, 2007.

Additional Links:

Salem Heights School at Discover-Neighborhood-History

Historical Photos:

Salem Heights School, December 25, 1914 (Salem Public Library)

39. J. L. Parrish Middle School

802 Capitol Street NE

J. L. Parrish Middle School opened on September 29, 1924 as J. L. Parrish Junior High School. The school was designed by architects Knighton & Howell and was built by contractors Hansen-Hammond & Clist. The school's name was changed to J. L. Parrish Middle School in 1979.

Additional Links:

Parrish Middle School at Salem Online History

Parrish Junior High School at Discover-Neighborhood-History

Historical Photos:

J. L. Parrish Junior High School, 1923-1924 (Salem Public Library)

J. L. Parrish Junior High School, unknown date (Salem Public Library)

J. L. Parrish Junior High School, unknown date (Oregon State Library)

40. North Salem High School

765 14th Street NE

Salem's first high school was established in 1906. This building was built in 1937 as a Public Works Administration project at an approximate cost of $1,000,000. At the time, it was Salem's only high school, and was called simply Salem High School. When South Salem High School opened in 1954, this school was renamed North Salem High School. Inscriptions above the entrances proclaim "Enter to grow in wisdom" and "Education: the defense of the state." The flagpole and the brickwork surrounding it were constructed by the citizen soldiers of the 162nd Engineer Company of the 41st Infantry Brigade of the Oregon Army National Guard, assisted by the students of the North Salem High School JROTC, Leadership Class and Class of 2001, with support provided by SOLV and the Salem Trophy Company. It was dedicated on June 7, 2001, and bears the following quote from Epictetus: "Only the educated are free."

Additional Links:

North Salem High School at the Salem Oregon Community Guide

Historical Photos:

North Salem High School, 1967 (Salem Public Library)

North Salem High School, unknown date (Salem Public Library)

To continue, proceed to Part 4: Miscellaneous Sites, or jump to one of the other sections.

Part 3:

Government Buildings

Part 4:

Miscellaneous Sites

Salem Links

City of Salem

Salem Historic Landmarks Commission

Salem Online History

Oregon Historic Photograph Collections

Salem Historical Quarterly

Salem Oregon Community Guide

Oregon Department of Transportation Highway - Geo-Environmental Section: Architecture

Marion County Historical Society

Salem Historic Downtown Historic District Walking Tour by Virginia at Picasa Web Albums

Salem in Oregon History Walking Tour by TNji at Picasa Web Albums

Riverfront Park Walking Tour by TNji at Picasa Web Albums

Discover-Neighborhood-History

Salem Heritage Network

Friends of Two Bridges in Salem, Oregon

Also See:

PLACES - Milwaukie, Oregon

PLACES - Astoria, Oregon

PLACES - Oregon City, Oregon

PLACES - Lebanon, Oregon

PLACES - Rainier, Oregon

PLACES - Kelso-Longview, Washington

PLACES - Antique Powerland, Brooks, Oregon

PLACES - Evergreen Aviation Museum, McMinnville, Oregon

PORTLAND PLACES - Historic Belmont Firehouse

PORTLAND PLACES - Ankeny Square & Skidmore Fountain

PORTLAND PLACES - Tom McCall Waterfront Park

PORTLAND PLACES - Pioneer Courthouse Square

PORTLAND PLACES - Willamette Shore Trolley

PORTLAND PLACES - Oregon Convention Center

PORTLAND PLACES - Willamette River Bridges

PORTLAND PLACES - Brooklyn Roundhouse

PORTLAND PLACES - Council Crest Park

PORTLAND PLACES - Golf Junction

PORTLAND PLACES - Hoyt Street Yard & Lovejoy Columns

PORTLAND PLACES - Oaks Amusement Park

PORTLAND PLACES - South Waterfront & Aerial Tram

PORTLAND PLACES - Union Station

Northwest Railroad Depots

All website content, including graphics and pictures are © Robert D. West unless otherwise noted. Content is not to be used out of the context of this webpage without expressed permission. Any opinions expressed herein are mine and are not necessarily shared by the Milwaukee School of Engineering, or anyone else.

Questions? Comments? Critiques? Corrections? Concerns? Email me at westr@msoe.edu.