Open: Wednesday – Saturday 10AM – 4:30PM
FREE Admission For All Ages
281 S 2nd Street, Independence, OR 97351
Open: Wednesday – Saturday 10AM – 4:30PM
FREE Admission For All Ages
281 S 2nd Street, Independence, OR 97351
Welcome to the Independence Oregon Heritage Museum
Preserving the Past for 50 Years
The Independence Heritage Museum preserves and shares the stories of our community—from the Kalapuya people and Oregon Trail settlers to hop farming, Main Street commerce, and military service. Our exhibits and programs highlight the people and events that shaped Independence and continue to influence it today.
Explore our history through pop-up exhibits around town, an interactive online tour, and our always evolving digital collections. Our staff and volunteers also assist with local research inquiries, helping connect residents and visitors alike to the stories that define this region.
Though our physical home is in transition, our commitment to preserving Independence’s heritage remains strong—and visible throughout the city we serve.
Our mission is to collect and share the natural history and diverse cultural heritage of the river community of Independence.
To serve as a welcoming resource and center of learning for our community, scholars, historians, educators, and visitors, inspiring engagement with the past and appreciation for the future.
Current Exhibits
Explore the story of Independence through engaging, hands-on exhibits. Discover the vital role of the Willamette River, the traditions of the area’s original Native inhabitants, and the city’s long-standing connection to hop farming. Step into the daily lives of past residents through displays featuring local schools, organizations, and businesses. A centerpiece exhibit is a pioneer-era wagon, carefully refurbished for the 1959 “On to Oregon” Cavalcade reenactment—making it historic both as an original artifact and for its role in celebrating the region’s heritage.
Hop Heritage
Early Independence Living
Ella Curran: Feeding the Community
With Even More History To Uncover
Hop Heritage
Ella Curran: Feeding the Community
Early Independence Living
With Even More History To Uncover
360
Virtual Tour
360
Virtual Tour
Curator’s Corner
Behind The Scenes Video Series
Curator’s Corner is a storytelling series hosted by Heritage Museum Director and Curator, Amy Christensen. Each episode highlights the people, places, and moments that shape the rich history of Independence. Through interviews, object spotlights, and behind-the-scenes insights, Amy shares how local stories connect to broader historical themes.
Whether you’re a lifelong resident or new to the area, Curator’s Corner invites you to discover the heritage that makes our community unique. Join us as we explore the past, one story at a time.
Fueling the Future of Innovation
Our museum connects learners of all ages with a growing library of educational tools:
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Explore Education Resources
Connect local history to classroom learning and community discovery.
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Digital Archives & Historical Documents
Access curated links to trusted sources, including regional and state history collections.
These resources support students, teachers, and lifelong learners in discovering the deep roots of innovation within our community.
Apparition Avenue
& Ghost Walk
Prepare to be spooked!
As dusk settles over Independence, a different kind of history comes alive. The Independence Heritage Museum’s Ghost Walk invites you to step into the shadows and explore the haunted heritage of our town. Hear the authenticated accounts of ghostly apparitions and unexplained phenomena from the very locations where they occurred.
This is not a tour for the faint of heart, but for those who dare to uncover the hidden stories that refuse to stay buried.
Don’t miss this unique seasonal event.
Apparition Avenue
& Ghost Walk
Prepare to be spooked!
As dusk settles over Independence, a different kind of history comes alive. The Independence Heritage Museum’s Ghost Walk invites you to step into the shadows and explore the haunted heritage of our town. Hear the authenticated accounts of ghostly apparitions and unexplained phenomena from the very locations where they occurred.
This is not a tour for the faint of heart, but for those who dare to uncover the hidden stories that refuse to stay buried.
Don’t miss this unique seasonal event.
Preserve the Past, Power the Future
Corporate & Foundation
The Independence Heritage Museum welcomes the opportunity to partner with businesses and foundations that value community, education, and cultural preservation. Your sponsorship helps us create meaningful exhibits, expand educational outreach, and preserve the unique stories of Independence.
Become a Heritage Helper
Share your time and passion for local history. Volunteers play a role at the Independence Heritage Museum—greeting guests, supporting events, preserving collections, and helping tell the stories that shape our community. Whether you have a few hours a week or just want to help at special events, there’s a place for you here.
Start the Conversation
For questions, tour requests, or general inquiries, please fill out our contact form. Our team is happy to assist you with information about exhibits, events, volunteering, and ways to support the museum.
Hours:
Open Wednesday – Saturday 10 am – 4:30 pm
FREE Admission for All Ages
