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.
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.
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.
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.”
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.
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.
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.
Web Links
