Is Your Home Part Of The Historic District
Historic Independence
The Independence Historic District was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1989. At that time, the buildings within the Historic District were classified as contributing or non-contributing based on considerations including: the building age and style, the type and number of alterations, and the building materials. Architectural styles found within the district included Victorian, Gothic, Craftsman, Italianate, Spanish Colonial and more.
Your Home Is Part Of The Historic District
Historic Independence
The Independence Historic District was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1989. At that time, the buildings within the Historic District were classified as contributing or non-contributing based on considerations including: the building age and style, the type and number of alterations, and the building materials. Architectural styles found within the district included Victorian, Gothic, Craftsman, Italianate, Spanish Colonial and more.
Your Home Is Part Of The Historic District
Historic Independence
The Independence Historic District was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1989. At that time, the buildings within the Historic District were classified as contributing or non-contributing based on considerations including: the building age and style, the type and number of alterations, and the building materials. Architectural styles found within the district included Victorian, Gothic, Craftsman, Italianate, Spanish Colonial and more.
Property Values
Standards usually raise property values.
Building Styles
Architectural styles found within the district.
Research
Research on historic preservation is a powerful tool.
Economic Effects
Results consistently show that property values appreciate.
1905
1959
2000
2022
Historic Preservation Commission
The Independence Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) works to:
- Protect significant elements of Independence’s history.
- Celebrate the accomplishments of the past.
- Foster public appreciation and civic pride in the beauty of historic properties.
- Enhance the visual character of the city.
The Independence Historic Preservation Commission also acts decision-maker for certain land use applications such as the review of new development within the Independence Historic District, additions to structures within the district, and alterations to historic structures. To find out whether Historic Preservation Commission review is required for a project, please contact Fred Evander at (503) 837-1168.
Slide the arrows left and right to view the two images.
Meeting Details
Third (3rd) Mondays at 5:30 PM
Council Chambers at City Hall
Altering a Property in the Historic District
Individuals that plan to construct or modify a structure within the Independence Historic District should contact the City of Independence. A review of the revisions may be necessary.
To find out the review process, please contact Fred Evander, Community Planner, at (503) 837-1168.
Historic review is not required:
- When there is no change in the appearance or material composition of the existing structure.
- When the repair or maintenance of the structure uses the same materials in the area being repaired.
- For interior alterations.
- For changes in paint color.
Preserving History
One Building At A Time
Welcome to Historic Independence, Oregon, named for Independence, Missouri where the wagon trains on the Oregon Trail started on their long journey west. If you’re a die-hard history buff or just a casual admirer of “old things,” we have something for everyone.
About the Historic District
The properties within the Historic District were classified as contributing or non-contributing buildings based on considerations including: the building style, the type and number of alterations, the building materials, the setbacks and the number of stories.
About the Historic District
Altering a Property in the Historic District
Individuals that plan to modify a structure within the Independence Historic District should contact the City of Independence. A review of the revisions may be necessary.
To find out the review process, please contact Fred Evander, Community Planner, at (503) 837-1168.
About the Historic District
The Independence Historic District was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1989. At that time, the properties within the Historic District were classified as contributing or non-contributing buildings based on considerations including: the building style, the type and number of alterations, the building materials, the setbacks and the number of stories. Architectural styles found within the district included Victorian, Gothic, Craftsman, Italianate, Spanish Colonial and more.
Original Property Classifications
The following classifications were used in the original designation:
Primary Significant Contributing (P): Structures were classified as Primary if they were built in or before 1904 and reflected the building styles and traditions characteristic of the period of development. These buildings represented the primary period of construction and development in Independence from initial settlement through 1904.
Secondary Significant Contributing (S): Structures were classified as Secondary if they were built in or between 1905 and 1940. Also, buildings from the primary building period were classified as Secondary if they had been altered that they reflect styles from the secondary building period.
Historic Non-Contributing (HNC): Structures were classified as Historic Non-Contributing if they were built during either the primary or secondary periods of construction but had been so altered over time that the contributing elements (siding, windows, massing, entrances, and roof) had been lost or concealed.
Non-Compatible Non-Contributing (NCNC): Structures were classified as Non-Compatible Non-Contributing if they were built after 1940 and were incompatible architecturally (i.e. scale, materials, use) with the significant structures and the historic character of the district.
To see the classification of homes as part of that original survey, please click here.
To see a map of the classifications, please click here.
2012 Resurvey
In 2012, the City and the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) resurveyed the district .
The 2012 SHPO Architectural Survey Data is available here.
The resurvey has never been officially adopted by the City of Independence.
Local History
The City of Independence formed the Independence Historic District in 1989 to celebrate the community’s heritage. This 30-block area, located on the west bank of the Willamette River.
Local Independence History
The City of Independence is the third largest urban area in Polk County, Oregon. Located twelve miles southwest of Salem, on the west bank of the Willamette River, it was known as the “Hop Capital of the World” from the late 1890’s to the 1940’s.
The first group of wagon trains to arrive in Independence set out from Missouri in May, 1844, following the Platte River to Fort Laramie and continuing on the Oregon Trail to the city of The Dalles. At The Dalles, they loaded onto boats, traveled the Columbia River, going around the Cascades, and continued on the Oregon Trail, arriving in Independence in June of 1845.
Among the members of the party were several families from Council Bluffs, Iowa, led by John Thorp. His son, Elvin staked a claim just north of Ash Creek, and in the southeast corner of the claim platted a small town site. Today, the area is referred to as either “Old Town” or “Thorp’s Town.”
Sources give Mrs. Thomas Burbank, the wife of an early pioneer who settled several miles southwest of the town site, the cred of suggesting the name of the Missouri town of Independence for the new settlement. Not only was the town the starting point for many emigrants who came across the Oregon Trail, but one source identified the community as Thorp’s hometown. Thorp consented to the name on the condition that the Burbanks move to the new town and build a store. The town flourished due to its strategic transportation location on the Willamette River. It’s success ended abruptly however after the flood of 1861, which left the town devastated. Residents were apprehensive about rebuilding in the original location, and plans for a new town began.
In 1847, Henry Hill arrived in the area. On November 14th, Hill claimed a one square mile Donation Land Claim south of Ash Creek, and opened a log cabin store. After the 1861 flood, many residents wanted Hill to plat a new town, immediately to the south of Thorp’s Town of Independence, but on higher, flatter ground. In 1867, Hill platted the 40-acre town site that became known as Henry Hill’s Town of Independence.
By February 26, 1885, Thorp’s and Hill’s Towns of Independence were incorporate, and the 1880s brought prosperity and growth to the community. Most of the major buildings standing today were constructed during the period. A city government was formed, and the first City employee, John Bohannon, was hired as City watchman and marshal at $45.00 per month. A Mayor-Council form of government was also established, the form of government that continues today.
Between 1900 and 1940, the growing, cultivating and harvesting of hops was the town’s largest industry and greatly enriched the city’s coffers. The community was considered to be the “Hop Capitol of the World.”
Each year, beginning in July, thousands of pickers descended on the city, coming by boat, wagon and train for the hop harvest. They bedded down in tents in the hop yards, slept on straw, and cooked on sheet iron camp stoves. At the height of the hop era, in the 1920’s and 1930’s, there were close to 4,600 acres in the surrounding area planted for hops.
In the 1940s, as a result of competition from foreign markets and new production methods for beer, the hop industry declined. By 1950 there was virtually nothing left of the once thriving industry.
The City of Independence formed the Independence Historic District in 1989 to celebrate the community’s heritage. This 30-block area, located on the west bank of the Willamette River, was placed on the National Register of Historic Places and retains much of the early character and architecture from the 1880’s.
For an analysis of Independence’s history excerpted from the 1982 National Register Listing, please follow this link
M-I History Project
Two compilations that make it easier for people to learn about the history of Monmouth and Independence have been prepared and are now available on the websites of the two cities.
Monmouth and Independence History Project
History timeline, research resources prepared for Independence, Monmouth
Two compilations that make it easier for people to learn about the history of Monmouth and Independence have been prepared and are now available on the websites of the two cities.
“It has been nearly 20 years since Scott McArthur published his book about Monmouth’s history,” said Kyle Jansson, who is facilitating the efforts of the Monmouth-Independence History Project. “The timeline and the list of historical research resources build upon the work of previous historians such as Scott McArthur. More importantly, they will help people benefit from the work of historians during the past 20 years and the large amount of historical information now available in digital form.”
The history timeline highlights more than 75 events: murders, controversial race and political issues, institutional milestones, population changes, varied accomplishments, and national developments that had direct local impacts. Many of the listed events have Internet links for additional information.
There are more than 40 historical research resources listed, many of which people can look at through Internet links in the document. These include archives, newspapers, oral histories, oral and video presentations, and public records.
The M-I History Project began in November following a request by a human rights task force appointed last summer by Independence Mayor John McArdle and Monmouth Mayor Cecelia Koontz. The task force made several recommendations to identify and address issues of systemic racism in Independence and Monmouth. They wanted to know more about how a culture of racial bias had grown historically in the community.
The M-I History Project’s mission is to facilitate research and programming to provide context to our locally diverse history and support a more equitable and culturally-informed community through shared learning and dialogue.
“We have a couple of other projects in the planning stage, and a long list of suggestions for other projects,” said Jansson. “Many people have provided input so far, and I especially want to thank the cities of Independence and Monmouth and Western Oregon University’s library archives for their help.”
Both the timeline and the history resources list will be updated periodically. Suggestions for additions to them, and requests for additional information, can be sent to the M-I History Project at mihistoryproject@gmail.com
Monmouth-Independence Project Materials
Modifying Historic Structure
All actions for exterior alteration, removal or demolition of a historic resource, or new construction within the historic district.
Modifying a Historic Structure
Review is required for any change to the exterior of a building if:
- The home or business is located within the Independence Historic District, or
- The historic resource is located outside the Historic District but has been designated by the city as a historic landmark.
All actions for exterior alteration, removal or demolition of a historic resource, or new construction within the historic district shall be initiated by the submission of an Application to Certify Historic Appropriateness. Depending on the nature of the action, the property may require a review or public hearing before the Independence Historic Preservation Commission.
Please note: applications to remove historic trees also require review by the Commission. Please, submit a Historic/Landmark Tree Removal Application to begin the review.
Details about each of the properties within the Independence Historic District are available here. (virtual map link)
The Historic Preservation chapter of the Independence Development Code can be found here.
Questions may be submitted to Fred Evander, Community Planner at (503) 837-1168.
Restoration Resources
This section of the website attempts to provide resources for the historic homeowner to thoughtfully and properly repair and maintain their historic property.
Restoration Resources
Old houses are beautiful and they have a character all their own. They also can come with maintenance and repair issues that are different than more modern houses.
This section of the website attempts to provide resources for the historic homeowner to thoughtfully and properly repair and maintain their historic property – as a home for them and a resource for the community. Some basic resources are listed below.
More specific resource areas include:
National Park Service Preservation Briefs
Looking for guidance on how to deal with your historic building? These briefs offer detailed information on a wide variety of topics, from maintaining exteriors, to heating and cooling, energy efficiency and roofing. They also offer practical information on topics like making buildings ADA accessible, removing graffitti, and preserving stucco. If you have a project on a historic home or commercial building. Check these briefs for excellent information to help you with your project. http://www.nps.gov/tps/how-to-preserve/briefs.htm
Wood Window Repair or Replacement?
Wood windows are one of the key character defining features of historic homes, but they can also be in poor condition and leak air and water.
What to do About Wood Windows?
One of the toughest questions to deal with when restoring a historic home is how to deal with the original wood windows. The wood is frequently rotted, the glass is single pane, and they are a big part of why historic homes have that drafty, hard-to-heat reputation. Wood windows are also one of the key character-defining pieces of a historic home and shouldn’t simply be removed and replaced with vinyl without serious consideration. Below are several articles and resources describing the background of wood windows, how they were designed to operate, and some effective ways to retain your home’s original wood windows while enhancing their visual and insulating characteristics.
Window Web Links
- National Trust for Historic Preservation: Windows
- Saving Windows, Saving Money: Evaluating the Energy Performance of Window Retrofit and Replacement
- Green is Gold: The Case Against Window Recycling
- Facts About Vinyl Windows
- Simple Steps to Working Windows (video)
- Repairing Sash Cords (video)
- The Effects of Energy Efficiency Treatments on Historic Windows
- Wood Window Efficiency Research
Sustainability in Historic Homes
Yes, it is possible to retain the historic features of a home while enhancing the sustainability and energy efficiency of the building.
People are frequently concerned about the perceived conflict between preservation of historic resources, and todays desires for sustainable, low-carbon footprint living. The truth is, there doesn’t have to be a conflict. What is more sustainable than re-using an old house? And with the resources listed on this page, a historic home can be made efficient and sustainable without compromising its historic integrity.
Web Links
- Green Roofs on Historic Homes
- Energy Efficiency/Weatherizing Historic Homes
- Sustainability Case Studies
- Weatherization Guide for Historic Homes
- Energy Efficiency in Historic Commercial Buildings
Looking for Replacement Parts?
One of the hardest parts of any restoration project is finding appropriate replacement parts. Whether it’s siding, doorknobs, windows, or brick, they just don’t make them like they used to. Here are some resources for finding and reusing historic building materials. The State Historic Preservation Office maintains a list of suppliers for restoration projects. Additionally, the Historic Preservation Commission has compiled a partial list of deconstruction contractors and historic material sources from the area. The list is attached at the bottom of this page along with links to several material suppliers.
Supporting Documents
Deconstruction Contractors and Historic Material Suppliers
Web Links
Here is a list of area resources for finding historic building materials and fixtures.
Historically Appropriate Paint Colors
If you need to put a fresh coat of paint on your historic home, whether interior or exterior, click here to get an idea of historically appropriate colors.
Contractors Specializing in Historic Preservation
The State Historic Preservation Office has a list of contractors who specialize in remodeling and preservation of historic buildings. The list is broken into categories (ie: masonry, finish carpentry, window restoration, etc.). Additionally ,several local historic building owners compiled a list of local contractors that they have used on their projects. This list is attached at the bottom of the page. The list provided is a non-comprehensive list of contractors that work on historic buildings and is not a specific endorsement of any contractor, but meant for informational purposes only.
Historic Preservation Tax Credits
Get paid to restore your historic home or commercial building! Well, at least offset some of the cost of doing a proper restoration. There are a wide variety of programs through the state and federal government to help historic building owners restore their properties. Learn More
Helpful Links
There are a huge number of resources on the internet related to historic preservation and historical issues.
Helpful Links
There are a huge number of resources on the internet related to historic preservation and historical issues. Below are some selected links
- Oregon State Historic Preservation Office – Information on all things historic in the State of Oregon.
- National Park Service’s Technical Preservation Services program – Topics include sustainability and historic preservation, research and studies on energy efficiency and historic buildings, sustainability resources for home owners, historic districts and communities and Federal agencies. Case studies highlighting successful tax incentives projects and projects that combined historic rehabilitation and green building practices rotate on the home page and in several sections of the site.
- National Trust for Historic Preservation – An outlet for preservation news, heritage tourism, and restoration resources.
- Oregon’s Special Assessment for Historic Properties – A tax incentive to encourage preservation
- Oregon Historic Sites Database
Additional Web Resources
About the Historic District
The properties within the Historic District were classified as contributing or non-contributing buildings based on considerations including: the building style, the type and number of alterations, the building materials, the setbacks and the number of stories.
About the Historic District
Altering a Property in the Historic District
Individuals that plan to modify a structure within the Independence Historic District should contact the City of Independence. A review of the revisions may be necessary.
To find out the review process, please contact Fred Evander, Community Planner, at (503) 837-1168.
About the Historic District
The Independence Historic District was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1989. At that time, the properties within the Historic District were classified as contributing or non-contributing buildings based on considerations including: the building style, the type and number of alterations, the building materials, the setbacks and the number of stories. Architectural styles found within the district included Victorian, Gothic, Craftsman, Italianate, Spanish Colonial and more.
Original Property Classifications
The following classifications were used in the original designation:
Primary Significant Contributing (P): Structures were classified as Primary if they were built in or before 1904 and reflected the building styles and traditions characteristic of the period of development. These buildings represented the primary period of construction and development in Independence from initial settlement through 1904.
Secondary Significant Contributing (S): Structures were classified as Secondary if they were built in or between 1905 and 1940. Also, buildings from the primary building period were classified as Secondary if they had been altered that they reflect styles from the secondary building period.
Historic Non-Contributing (HNC): Structures were classified as Historic Non-Contributing if they were built during either the primary or secondary periods of construction but had been so altered over time that the contributing elements (siding, windows, massing, entrances, and roof) had been lost or concealed.
Non-Compatible Non-Contributing (NCNC): Structures were classified as Non-Compatible Non-Contributing if they were built after 1940 and were incompatible architecturally (i.e. scale, materials, use) with the significant structures and the historic character of the district.
To see the classification of homes as part of that original survey, please click here.
To see a map of the classifications, please click here.
2012 Resurvey
In 2012, the City and the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) resurveyed the district .
The 2012 SHPO Architectural Survey Data is available here.
The resurvey has never been officially adopted by the City of Independence.
Local History
The City of Independence formed the Independence Historic District in 1989 to celebrate the community’s heritage. This 30-block area, located on the west bank of the Willamette River.
Local Independence History
The City of Independence is the third largest urban area in Polk County, Oregon. Located twelve miles southwest of Salem, on the west bank of the Willamette River, it was known as the “Hop Capital of the World” from the late 1890’s to the 1940’s.
The first group of wagon trains to arrive in Independence set out from Missouri in May, 1844, following the Platte River to Fort Laramie and continuing on the Oregon Trail to the city of The Dalles. At The Dalles, they loaded onto boats, traveled the Columbia River, going around the Cascades, and continued on the Oregon Trail, arriving in Independence in June of 1845.
Among the members of the party were several families from Council Bluffs, Iowa, led by John Thorp. His son, Elvin staked a claim just north of Ash Creek, and in the southeast corner of the claim platted a small town site. Today, the area is referred to as either “Old Town” or “Thorp’s Town.”
Sources give Mrs. Thomas Burbank, the wife of an early pioneer who settled several miles southwest of the town site, the cred of suggesting the name of the Missouri town of Independence for the new settlement. Not only was the town the starting point for many emigrants who came across the Oregon Trail, but one source identified the community as Thorp’s hometown. Thorp consented to the name on the condition that the Burbanks move to the new town and build a store. The town flourished due to its strategic transportation location on the Willamette River. It’s success ended abruptly however after the flood of 1861, which left the town devastated. Residents were apprehensive about rebuilding in the original location, and plans for a new town began.
In 1847, Henry Hill arrived in the area. On November 14th, Hill claimed a one square mile Donation Land Claim south of Ash Creek, and opened a log cabin store. After the 1861 flood, many residents wanted Hill to plat a new town, immediately to the south of Thorp’s Town of Independence, but on higher, flatter ground. In 1867, Hill platted the 40-acre town site that became known as Henry Hill’s Town of Independence.
By February 26, 1885, Thorp’s and Hill’s Towns of Independence were incorporate, and the 1880s brought prosperity and growth to the community. Most of the major buildings standing today were constructed during the period. A city government was formed, and the first City employee, John Bohannon, was hired as City watchman and marshal at $45.00 per month. A Mayor-Council form of government was also established, the form of government that continues today.
Between 1900 and 1940, the growing, cultivating and harvesting of hops was the town’s largest industry and greatly enriched the city’s coffers. The community was considered to be the “Hop Capitol of the World.”
Each year, beginning in July, thousands of pickers descended on the city, coming by boat, wagon and train for the hop harvest. They bedded down in tents in the hop yards, slept on straw, and cooked on sheet iron camp stoves. At the height of the hop era, in the 1920’s and 1930’s, there were close to 4,600 acres in the surrounding area planted for hops.
In the 1940s, as a result of competition from foreign markets and new production methods for beer, the hop industry declined. By 1950 there was virtually nothing left of the once thriving industry.
The City of Independence formed the Independence Historic District in 1989 to celebrate the community’s heritage. This 30-block area, located on the west bank of the Willamette River, was placed on the National Register of Historic Places and retains much of the early character and architecture from the 1880’s.
For an analysis of Independence’s history excerpted from the 1982 National Register Listing, please follow this link
M-I History Project
Two compilations that make it easier for people to learn about the history of Monmouth and Independence have been prepared and are now available on the websites of the two cities.
Monmouth and Independence History Project
History timeline, research resources prepared for Independence, Monmouth
Two compilations that make it easier for people to learn about the history of Monmouth and Independence have been prepared and are now available on the websites of the two cities.
“It has been nearly 20 years since Scott McArthur published his book about Monmouth’s history,” said Kyle Jansson, who is facilitating the efforts of the Monmouth-Independence History Project. “The timeline and the list of historical research resources build upon the work of previous historians such as Scott McArthur. More importantly, they will help people benefit from the work of historians during the past 20 years and the large amount of historical information now available in digital form.”
The history timeline highlights more than 75 events: murders, controversial race and political issues, institutional milestones, population changes, varied accomplishments, and national developments that had direct local impacts. Many of the listed events have Internet links for additional information.
There are more than 40 historical research resources listed, many of which people can look at through Internet links in the document. These include archives, newspapers, oral histories, oral and video presentations, and public records.
The M-I History Project began in November following a request by a human rights task force appointed last summer by Independence Mayor John McArdle and Monmouth Mayor Cecelia Koontz. The task force made several recommendations to identify and address issues of systemic racism in Independence and Monmouth. They wanted to know more about how a culture of racial bias had grown historically in the community.
The M-I History Project’s mission is to facilitate research and programming to provide context to our locally diverse history and support a more equitable and culturally-informed community through shared learning and dialogue.
“We have a couple of other projects in the planning stage, and a long list of suggestions for other projects,” said Jansson. “Many people have provided input so far, and I especially want to thank the cities of Independence and Monmouth and Western Oregon University’s library archives for their help.”
Both the timeline and the history resources list will be updated periodically. Suggestions for additions to them, and requests for additional information, can be sent to the M-I History Project at mihistoryproject@gmail.com
Monmouth-Independence Project Materials
Modifying Historic Structure
All actions for exterior alteration, removal or demolition of a historic resource, or new construction within the historic district.
Modifying a Historic Structure
Review is required for any change to the exterior of a building if:
- The home or business is located within the Independence Historic District, or
- The historic resource is located outside the Historic District but has been designated by the city as a historic landmark.
All actions for exterior alteration, removal or demolition of a historic resource, or new construction within the historic district shall be initiated by the submission of an Application to Certify Historic Appropriateness. Depending on the nature of the action, the property may require a review or public hearing before the Independence Historic Preservation Commission.
Please note: applications to remove historic trees also require review by the Commission. Please, submit a Historic/Landmark Tree Removal Application to begin the review.
Details about each of the properties within the Independence Historic District are available here. (virtual map link)
The Historic Preservation chapter of the Independence Development Code can be found here.
Questions may be submitted to Fred Evander, Community Planner at (503) 837-1168.
Restoration Resources
This section of the website attempts to provide resources for the historic homeowner to thoughtfully and properly repair and maintain their historic property.
Restoration Resources
Old houses are beautiful and they have a character all their own. They also can come with maintenance and repair issues that are different than more modern houses.
This section of the website attempts to provide resources for the historic homeowner to thoughtfully and properly repair and maintain their historic property – as a home for them and a resource for the community. Some basic resources are listed below.
More specific resource areas include:
National Park Service Preservation Briefs
Looking for guidance on how to deal with your historic building? These briefs offer detailed information on a wide variety of topics, from maintaining exteriors, to heating and cooling, energy efficiency and roofing. They also offer practical information on topics like making buildings ADA accessible, removing graffitti, and preserving stucco. If you have a project on a historic home or commercial building. Check these briefs for excellent information to help you with your project. http://www.nps.gov/tps/how-to-preserve/briefs.htm
Wood Window Repair or Replacement?
Wood windows are one of the key character defining features of historic homes, but they can also be in poor condition and leak air and water.
What to do About Wood Windows?
One of the toughest questions to deal with when restoring a historic home is how to deal with the original wood windows. The wood is frequently rotted, the glass is single pane, and they are a big part of why historic homes have that drafty, hard-to-heat reputation. Wood windows are also one of the key character-defining pieces of a historic home and shouldn’t simply be removed and replaced with vinyl without serious consideration. Below are several articles and resources describing the background of wood windows, how they were designed to operate, and some effective ways to retain your home’s original wood windows while enhancing their visual and insulating characteristics.
Window Web Links
- National Trust for Historic Preservation: Windows
- Saving Windows, Saving Money: Evaluating the Energy Performance of Window Retrofit and Replacement
- Green is Gold: The Case Against Window Recycling
- Facts About Vinyl Windows
- Simple Steps to Working Windows (video)
- Repairing Sash Cords (video)
- The Effects of Energy Efficiency Treatments on Historic Windows
- Wood Window Efficiency Research
Sustainability in Historic Homes
Yes, it is possible to retain the historic features of a home while enhancing the sustainability and energy efficiency of the building.
People are frequently concerned about the perceived conflict between preservation of historic resources, and todays desires for sustainable, low-carbon footprint living. The truth is, there doesn’t have to be a conflict. What is more sustainable than re-using an old house? And with the resources listed on this page, a historic home can be made efficient and sustainable without compromising its historic integrity.
Web Links
- Green Roofs on Historic Homes
- Energy Efficiency/Weatherizing Historic Homes
- Sustainability Case Studies
- Weatherization Guide for Historic Homes
- Energy Efficiency in Historic Commercial Buildings
Looking for Replacement Parts?
One of the hardest parts of any restoration project is finding appropriate replacement parts. Whether it’s siding, doorknobs, windows, or brick, they just don’t make them like they used to. Here are some resources for finding and reusing historic building materials. The State Historic Preservation Office maintains a list of suppliers for restoration projects. Additionally, the Historic Preservation Commission has compiled a partial list of deconstruction contractors and historic material sources from the area. The list is attached at the bottom of this page along with links to several material suppliers.
Supporting Documents
Deconstruction Contractors and Historic Material Suppliers
Web Links
Here is a list of area resources for finding historic building materials and fixtures.
Historically Appropriate Paint Colors
If you need to put a fresh coat of paint on your historic home, whether interior or exterior, click here to get an idea of historically appropriate colors.
Contractors Specializing in Historic Preservation
The State Historic Preservation Office has a list of contractors who specialize in remodeling and preservation of historic buildings. The list is broken into categories (ie: masonry, finish carpentry, window restoration, etc.). Additionally ,several local historic building owners compiled a list of local contractors that they have used on their projects. This list is attached at the bottom of the page. The list provided is a non-comprehensive list of contractors that work on historic buildings and is not a specific endorsement of any contractor, but meant for informational purposes only.
Historic Preservation Tax Credits
Get paid to restore your historic home or commercial building! Well, at least offset some of the cost of doing a proper restoration. There are a wide variety of programs through the state and federal government to help historic building owners restore their properties. Learn More
Helpful Links
There are a huge number of resources on the internet related to historic preservation and historical issues.
Helpful Links
There are a huge number of resources on the internet related to historic preservation and historical issues. Below are some selected links
- Oregon State Historic Preservation Office – Information on all things historic in the State of Oregon.
- National Park Service’s Technical Preservation Services program – Topics include sustainability and historic preservation, research and studies on energy efficiency and historic buildings, sustainability resources for home owners, historic districts and communities and Federal agencies. Case studies highlighting successful tax incentives projects and projects that combined historic rehabilitation and green building practices rotate on the home page and in several sections of the site.
- National Trust for Historic Preservation – An outlet for preservation news, heritage tourism, and restoration resources.
- Oregon’s Special Assessment for Historic Properties – A tax incentive to encourage preservation
- Oregon Historic Sites Database
Additional Web Resources
About the Historic District
The properties within the Historic District were classified as contributing or non-contributing buildings based on considerations including: the building style, the type and number of alterations, the building materials, the setbacks and the number of stories.
About the Historic District
Altering a Property in the Historic District
Individuals that plan to modify a structure within the Independence Historic District should contact the City of Independence. A review of the revisions may be necessary.
To find out the review process, please contact Fred Evander, Community Planner, at (503) 837-1168.
About the Historic District
The Independence Historic District was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1989. At that time, the properties within the Historic District were classified as contributing or non-contributing buildings based on considerations including: the building style, the type and number of alterations, the building materials, the setbacks and the number of stories. Architectural styles found within the district included Victorian, Gothic, Craftsman, Italianate, Spanish Colonial and more.
Original Property Classifications
The following classifications were used in the original designation:
Primary Significant Contributing (P): Structures were classified as Primary if they were built in or before 1904 and reflected the building styles and traditions characteristic of the period of development. These buildings represented the primary period of construction and development in Independence from initial settlement through 1904.
Secondary Significant Contributing (S): Structures were classified as Secondary if they were built in or between 1905 and 1940. Also, buildings from the primary building period were classified as Secondary if they had been altered that they reflect styles from the secondary building period.
Historic Non-Contributing (HNC): Structures were classified as Historic Non-Contributing if they were built during either the primary or secondary periods of construction but had been so altered over time that the contributing elements (siding, windows, massing, entrances, and roof) had been lost or concealed.
Non-Compatible Non-Contributing (NCNC): Structures were classified as Non-Compatible Non-Contributing if they were built after 1940 and were incompatible architecturally (i.e. scale, materials, use) with the significant structures and the historic character of the district.
To see the classification of homes as part of that original survey, please click here.
To see a map of the classifications, please click here.
2012 Resurvey
In 2012, the City and the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) resurveyed the district .
The 2012 SHPO Architectural Survey Data is available here.
The resurvey has never been officially adopted by the City of Independence.
Local History
The City of Independence formed the Independence Historic District in 1989 to celebrate the community’s heritage. This 30-block area, located on the west bank of the Willamette River.
Local Independence History
The City of Independence is the third largest urban area in Polk County, Oregon. Located twelve miles southwest of Salem, on the west bank of the Willamette River, it was known as the “Hop Capital of the World” from the late 1890’s to the 1940’s.
The first group of wagon trains to arrive in Independence set out from Missouri in May, 1844, following the Platte River to Fort Laramie and continuing on the Oregon Trail to the city of The Dalles. At The Dalles, they loaded onto boats, traveled the Columbia River, going around the Cascades, and continued on the Oregon Trail, arriving in Independence in June of 1845.
Among the members of the party were several families from Council Bluffs, Iowa, led by John Thorp. His son, Elvin staked a claim just north of Ash Creek, and in the southeast corner of the claim platted a small town site. Today, the area is referred to as either “Old Town” or “Thorp’s Town.”
Sources give Mrs. Thomas Burbank, the wife of an early pioneer who settled several miles southwest of the town site, the cred of suggesting the name of the Missouri town of Independence for the new settlement. Not only was the town the starting point for many emigrants who came across the Oregon Trail, but one source identified the community as Thorp’s hometown. Thorp consented to the name on the condition that the Burbanks move to the new town and build a store. The town flourished due to its strategic transportation location on the Willamette River. It’s success ended abruptly however after the flood of 1861, which left the town devastated. Residents were apprehensive about rebuilding in the original location, and plans for a new town began.
In 1847, Henry Hill arrived in the area. On November 14th, Hill claimed a one square mile Donation Land Claim south of Ash Creek, and opened a log cabin store. After the 1861 flood, many residents wanted Hill to plat a new town, immediately to the south of Thorp’s Town of Independence, but on higher, flatter ground. In 1867, Hill platted the 40-acre town site that became known as Henry Hill’s Town of Independence.
By February 26, 1885, Thorp’s and Hill’s Towns of Independence were incorporate, and the 1880s brought prosperity and growth to the community. Most of the major buildings standing today were constructed during the period. A city government was formed, and the first City employee, John Bohannon, was hired as City watchman and marshal at $45.00 per month. A Mayor-Council form of government was also established, the form of government that continues today.
Between 1900 and 1940, the growing, cultivating and harvesting of hops was the town’s largest industry and greatly enriched the city’s coffers. The community was considered to be the “Hop Capitol of the World.”
Each year, beginning in July, thousands of pickers descended on the city, coming by boat, wagon and train for the hop harvest. They bedded down in tents in the hop yards, slept on straw, and cooked on sheet iron camp stoves. At the height of the hop era, in the 1920’s and 1930’s, there were close to 4,600 acres in the surrounding area planted for hops.
In the 1940s, as a result of competition from foreign markets and new production methods for beer, the hop industry declined. By 1950 there was virtually nothing left of the once thriving industry.
The City of Independence formed the Independence Historic District in 1989 to celebrate the community’s heritage. This 30-block area, located on the west bank of the Willamette River, was placed on the National Register of Historic Places and retains much of the early character and architecture from the 1880’s.
For an analysis of Independence’s history excerpted from the 1982 National Register Listing, please follow this link
M-I History Project
Two compilations that make it easier for people to learn about the history of Monmouth and Independence have been prepared and are now available on the websites of the two cities.
Monmouth and Independence History Project
History timeline, research resources prepared for Independence, Monmouth
Two compilations that make it easier for people to learn about the history of Monmouth and Independence have been prepared and are now available on the websites of the two cities.
“It has been nearly 20 years since Scott McArthur published his book about Monmouth’s history,” said Kyle Jansson, who is facilitating the efforts of the Monmouth-Independence History Project. “The timeline and the list of historical research resources build upon the work of previous historians such as Scott McArthur. More importantly, they will help people benefit from the work of historians during the past 20 years and the large amount of historical information now available in digital form.”
The history timeline highlights more than 75 events: murders, controversial race and political issues, institutional milestones, population changes, varied accomplishments, and national developments that had direct local impacts. Many of the listed events have Internet links for additional information.
There are more than 40 historical research resources listed, many of which people can look at through Internet links in the document. These include archives, newspapers, oral histories, oral and video presentations, and public records.
The M-I History Project began in November following a request by a human rights task force appointed last summer by Independence Mayor John McArdle and Monmouth Mayor Cecelia Koontz. The task force made several recommendations to identify and address issues of systemic racism in Independence and Monmouth. They wanted to know more about how a culture of racial bias had grown historically in the community.
The M-I History Project’s mission is to facilitate research and programming to provide context to our locally diverse history and support a more equitable and culturally-informed community through shared learning and dialogue.
“We have a couple of other projects in the planning stage, and a long list of suggestions for other projects,” said Jansson. “Many people have provided input so far, and I especially want to thank the cities of Independence and Monmouth and Western Oregon University’s library archives for their help.”
Both the timeline and the history resources list will be updated periodically. Suggestions for additions to them, and requests for additional information, can be sent to the M-I History Project at mihistoryproject@gmail.com
Monmouth-Independence Project Materials
Modifying Historic Structure
All actions for exterior alteration, removal or demolition of a historic resource, or new construction within the historic district.
Modifying a Historic Structure
Review is required for any change to the exterior of a building if:
- The home or business is located within the Independence Historic District, or
- The historic resource is located outside the Historic District but has been designated by the city as a historic landmark.
All actions for exterior alteration, removal or demolition of a historic resource, or new construction within the historic district shall be initiated by the submission of an Application to Certify Historic Appropriateness. Depending on the nature of the action, the property may require a review or public hearing before the Independence Historic Preservation Commission.
Please note: applications to remove historic trees also require review by the Commission. Please, submit a Historic/Landmark Tree Removal Application to begin the review.
Details about each of the properties within the Independence Historic District are available here. (virtual map link)
The Historic Preservation chapter of the Independence Development Code can be found here.
Questions may be submitted to Fred Evander, Community Planner at (503) 837-1168.
Restoration Resources
This section of the website attempts to provide resources for the historic homeowner to thoughtfully and properly repair and maintain their historic property.
Restoration Resources
Old houses are beautiful and they have a character all their own. They also can come with maintenance and repair issues that are different than more modern houses.
This section of the website attempts to provide resources for the historic homeowner to thoughtfully and properly repair and maintain their historic property – as a home for them and a resource for the community. Some basic resources are listed below.
More specific resource areas include:
National Park Service Preservation Briefs
Looking for guidance on how to deal with your historic building? These briefs offer detailed information on a wide variety of topics, from maintaining exteriors, to heating and cooling, energy efficiency and roofing. They also offer practical information on topics like making buildings ADA accessible, removing graffitti, and preserving stucco. If you have a project on a historic home or commercial building. Check these briefs for excellent information to help you with your project. http://www.nps.gov/tps/how-to-preserve/briefs.htm
Wood Window Repair or Replacement?
Wood windows are one of the key character defining features of historic homes, but they can also be in poor condition and leak air and water.
What to do About Wood Windows?
One of the toughest questions to deal with when restoring a historic home is how to deal with the original wood windows. The wood is frequently rotted, the glass is single pane, and they are a big part of why historic homes have that drafty, hard-to-heat reputation. Wood windows are also one of the key character-defining pieces of a historic home and shouldn’t simply be removed and replaced with vinyl without serious consideration. Below are several articles and resources describing the background of wood windows, how they were designed to operate, and some effective ways to retain your home’s original wood windows while enhancing their visual and insulating characteristics.
Window Web Links
- National Trust for Historic Preservation: Windows
- Saving Windows, Saving Money: Evaluating the Energy Performance of Window Retrofit and Replacement
- Green is Gold: The Case Against Window Recycling
- Facts About Vinyl Windows
- Simple Steps to Working Windows (video)
- Repairing Sash Cords (video)
- The Effects of Energy Efficiency Treatments on Historic Windows
- Wood Window Efficiency Research
Sustainability in Historic Homes
Yes, it is possible to retain the historic features of a home while enhancing the sustainability and energy efficiency of the building.
People are frequently concerned about the perceived conflict between preservation of historic resources, and todays desires for sustainable, low-carbon footprint living. The truth is, there doesn’t have to be a conflict. What is more sustainable than re-using an old house? And with the resources listed on this page, a historic home can be made efficient and sustainable without compromising its historic integrity.
Web Links
- Green Roofs on Historic Homes
- Energy Efficiency/Weatherizing Historic Homes
- Sustainability Case Studies
- Weatherization Guide for Historic Homes
- Energy Efficiency in Historic Commercial Buildings
Looking for Replacement Parts?
One of the hardest parts of any restoration project is finding appropriate replacement parts. Whether it’s siding, doorknobs, windows, or brick, they just don’t make them like they used to. Here are some resources for finding and reusing historic building materials. The State Historic Preservation Office maintains a list of suppliers for restoration projects. Additionally, the Historic Preservation Commission has compiled a partial list of deconstruction contractors and historic material sources from the area. The list is attached at the bottom of this page along with links to several material suppliers.
Supporting Documents
Deconstruction Contractors and Historic Material Suppliers
Web Links
Here is a list of area resources for finding historic building materials and fixtures.
Historically Appropriate Paint Colors
If you need to put a fresh coat of paint on your historic home, whether interior or exterior, click here to get an idea of historically appropriate colors.
Contractors Specializing in Historic Preservation
The State Historic Preservation Office has a list of contractors who specialize in remodeling and preservation of historic buildings. The list is broken into categories (ie: masonry, finish carpentry, window restoration, etc.). Additionally ,several local historic building owners compiled a list of local contractors that they have used on their projects. This list is attached at the bottom of the page. The list provided is a non-comprehensive list of contractors that work on historic buildings and is not a specific endorsement of any contractor, but meant for informational purposes only.
Historic Preservation Tax Credits
Get paid to restore your historic home or commercial building! Well, at least offset some of the cost of doing a proper restoration. There are a wide variety of programs through the state and federal government to help historic building owners restore their properties. Learn More
Helpful Links
There are a huge number of resources on the internet related to historic preservation and historical issues.
Helpful Links
There are a huge number of resources on the internet related to historic preservation and historical issues. Below are some selected links
- Oregon State Historic Preservation Office – Information on all things historic in the State of Oregon.
- National Park Service’s Technical Preservation Services program – Topics include sustainability and historic preservation, research and studies on energy efficiency and historic buildings, sustainability resources for home owners, historic districts and communities and Federal agencies. Case studies highlighting successful tax incentives projects and projects that combined historic rehabilitation and green building practices rotate on the home page and in several sections of the site.
- National Trust for Historic Preservation – An outlet for preservation news, heritage tourism, and restoration resources.
- Oregon’s Special Assessment for Historic Properties – A tax incentive to encourage preservation
- Oregon Historic Sites Database
