When most people think about Feb. 14, thoughts of Valentine’s Day come to mind. However, this day is also a special one for the state of Oregon–marking the state’s birthday. This year is our 161st.
On Feb. 14, 1859, Oregon joined the United States as the 33rd state, and for a short time in 1855, Corvallis served as the territorial capital of the Beaver State.
In 1851, a bill passed by the territorial legislature moved the state capital from Oregon City to Salem. However, many people did not like this choice. There were many economic gains a city would get by becoming the capital, and the decision was contested for over 15 years.
Oregon’s capital moved four times: From Oregon City to Salem to Corvallis, and then back again to Salem, the current capital.
In December 1855, legislators met for a short time in Corvallis. They met in a building on the corner of Second Street and Adams Avenue, however, that did not last long: legislators promptly decided to move the capital back to Salem. Today the building is long gone, but the Corvallis Cyclery operates at the very location.
Soon after the decision, the Salem Capitol building was burned down on December 31, 1855. Although nothing was ever proved, some thought the burning was intentional, that it was done by people who did not want the government to be in Salem—maybe even people from Corvallis?
Happy Birthday Oregon.
By Tanveer Sandhu
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