Location:
Marion County
8089 Champoeg Rd NE
St. Paul, OR 97137
Historical Significance:
This structure was the home of Dr. Robert Newell and his family, who was a prominent figure, founding signor and member of the Oregon Provisional Territorial, State Government, and Oregon history. Dr. Newell was the first speaker of the house in Oregon. Dr. Newell moved to Champoeg in 1843, when he and his family brought the first wagon into the Willamette Valley. This two-story house was built in the revival style in 1852 and stands on a hill above Champoeq State Park. Dr. Robert Newell's house was the only surviving house in the flood of 1861 which destroyed the town of Champoeg.
All 200 people in the town of Champoeg escaped to safety – most to Newell’s home which was located upon a hill just above the flood water. Along with being the first to take a wagon across the main Oregon Trail, Dr. Newell was one of 52 men who voted for organized government in Champoeg, the starting place and heart of the beginning of Oregon. He served in the Provisional, Territorial and State government as a legislator. He was also one of nine to help write the laws of our state.
The Daughters of the American Revolution purchased the property and house in 1952. The Oregon State Daughters restored Newell’s house and opened it as a museum to the public in 1959. The house was furnished through the generosity of the descendants of Oregon Pioneers. Our unique collections of artifacts include textiles, textile equipment, clothing, furniture, household necessities, as well as other paraphernalia dating back to the mid- 19th century. The collection also includes Native American artifacts from around the United States.
Funded By:
The Oregon State Society Daughters of the American Revolution own, operate, and maintain this museum and the other structures on the site. The structures are open to the public for events, and docent led tours. This property is funded through interest from endowments, admission fees, donations, and grants.
Condition of Property:
- Preserve
Information for the Visitors:
- Open to the Public - Yes
- Family Friendly - Yes
- Hours/Days - March through Oct. 31st, Friday–Sunday, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
- Admission Fees - $6 Adults. $5 Seniors, DAR members, AAA members and Veterans. $3 Children (not including organized school and organization tours). Free for active Military.
- Lodging - No
Promotional Materials Available:
- Brochure Available - Yes
- Catalog Available - No
- DVD Available - No
Acknowledgements:
Preserving the history of the site, as museums open to the public
Other Historic Structures on the site: Butteville Academy, Butteville Jail and Pioneer Mother’s Memorial Cabin.
Current Owner: OSSDAR
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