Salem, Oregon

Salem is the capital and third largest city in Oregon. It covers 46.4 sq mi (120.1 sq km) and has a population of 154,000 people (2011 estimate), within a metropoliatn area of 350,000 people.

Oregon State Capitol, Salem
Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Salem_Capitol.jpg
Author: Sven Laux


Salem is located at the center of the Williamette Valley, with the Williamette River flowing to the north of the city, forming a natural boundary between Polk County and Marion County, of which Salem is also the county seat. In addition to being the seat of the state legislature, Salem is also an education hub, being home to Williamette University and Corban University.

The area where Salem is located today was originally inhabited by the Kalapuyan group of Native Americans. Europeans began arriving here from 1812, but recorded permanent settlement was only established in 1842 by the Jason Lee Methodist mission. At that time, the area was known by the Kalapuyan name of Chemeketa, which means "resting place". It was later renamed Salem (though exactly when is not known), which is derived from Hebrew/Arabic meaning "peace".

Wayne L. Morse United States Courthouse in Eugene, Oregon
Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:SalemORMissionMill6.jpg
Author: Aboutmovies


In 1851, Salem was chosen to be the capital of Oregon Territory. The capital was shifted briefly to Corvallis in 1855, but was moved back the same year. In 1857 Salem was given city status and in 1859, when Oregon received statehood, it remained as the state capital.

Visiting Salem

Interstate 5 connects Salem with Portland to the north and Eugene to the south.

Places of Interest in Salem

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