The capital of the state of Oregon is Salem. It is in the Willamette River valley in the northwestern part of the state. About 45 miles (70 kilometers) northeast of Salem is Portland, Oregon's largest city.

Places of interest

The State Capitol, which was completed in 1938, is near the center of the city. Willamette University is across the street from the Capitol. This university was founded in 1842 and is the oldest private university west of the Mississippi River. Bush's Pasture Park, named after an Oregon banker, contains the Bush House Museum and the Bush Barn Art Center. The Mission Mill Village is known for its restored historic buildings. Notable cultural events in Salem include the Salem Art Fair and the Oregon State Fair, both of which are held annually.

Economy

Due to its strategic location in the fertile Willamette Valley, Salem is a food-processing center for a large dairy-farming and fruit-growing area. In addition, it also has wood, cloth, and metal industries.

History

Salem was settled in 1840 when Methodist missionaries led by Jason Lee came to the area. Its Native American name, Chemeketa, meaning “place of rest,” was translated into the biblical name of Salem (from the Hebrew word shalom, which means “peace”). Salem developed quite rapidly as a town because migration from the Oregon Trail, one of the great routes to the northwest, ensured a steady stream of people. In 1851 Salem became the territorial capital of Oregon. In 1864, by popular vote, it was made the state capital. It also developed as a river port and grew rapidly when a railroad line to Salem was completed in 1871. Population (2000 census), 136,924.