Historical Markers in Benton County, Oregon
96th Infantry Division
Alice E. Biddle
Applegate Trail
Avery Park Applegate Trail Kiosk
Benton County Courthouse
Benton County State Bank
Camp Adair
Capitol of Territorial Oregon
City Hall
Early Town Development
Ebenezer Schoolhouse
Ecology of the Agricultural Reach
Elementary Schools
First Congregational Church
Historic Philomath College Building
Home of Fred J. Porter
Kearney Hall
Kings Valley Millstone
L.G. Kline Building
Madison Avenue
Mt. Union Cemetery
Oak Creeks Watershed
Oregon State University
Peavy Hall War Memorial
River Transport
Site of Corvallis Public Schools
Site of the Earliest Boat Landing
Sustainable Farm Management
The Applegate Trail
The Belknap Settlement
The Corvallis Arts Center
The Corvallis Ferry
The Incubator House & Poultry Building
The Opera House
The Timberwolves
The Trailblazers
The Van Buren Street Bridge
The Whiteside Theatre
The Wild West Division
Wilhelm Mill Water Wheel
Oregon has the best combination of scenery and climate
About Benton County
Benton County Timeline
Benton County, Oregon, located in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States, has a rich and diverse history spanning thousands of years. The area originally belonged to various Native American tribes, including the Kalapuya and the Wewa. They thrived on the abundant natural resources, using the land for hunting, fishing, and gathering.
The first recorded European contact with the region occurred in the 18th century when explorers and fur traders from the Hudson's Bay Company ventured inland. However, it was not until the mid-19th century that significant settlement took place. In 1847, a group of emigrants led by Elijah Bristow arrived in what is now Benton County, establishing Oregon's first non-Native American settlement.
During this period, the Oregon Territory was expanding rapidly, attracting more settlers seeking opportunities for land and a better life. Benton County was officially established on December 23, 1847, and named in honor of Missouri Senator Thomas Hart Benton, known for his support of westward expansion. The county's population grew steadily, especially with the completion of the Oregon Pacific Railroad in 1880, connecting the area to the rest of the state.
Benton County has undergone significant economic and social transformation throughout its history. Agriculture, particularly timber production and farming, played a vital role in the county's development. The fertile soil and favorable climate allowed for the growth of various crops, including wheat, oats, and strawberries. In the mid-20th century, Oregon State University (formerly Oregon Agricultural College) in Corvallis became a major driving force behind the county's economy, as its research and educational programs contributed to technological innovation and industrial diversification.
Today, Benton County continues to thrive as a vibrant and dynamic community. With a focus on sustainability, the county embraces its agricultural heritage while also being a hub for technology and innovation. Home to a diverse population and renowned educational institutions, Benton County remains a place where history, nature, and progress intersect.
The first recorded European contact with the region occurred in the 18th century when explorers and fur traders from the Hudson's Bay Company ventured inland. However, it was not until the mid-19th century that significant settlement took place. In 1847, a group of emigrants led by Elijah Bristow arrived in what is now Benton County, establishing Oregon's first non-Native American settlement.
During this period, the Oregon Territory was expanding rapidly, attracting more settlers seeking opportunities for land and a better life. Benton County was officially established on December 23, 1847, and named in honor of Missouri Senator Thomas Hart Benton, known for his support of westward expansion. The county's population grew steadily, especially with the completion of the Oregon Pacific Railroad in 1880, connecting the area to the rest of the state.
Benton County has undergone significant economic and social transformation throughout its history. Agriculture, particularly timber production and farming, played a vital role in the county's development. The fertile soil and favorable climate allowed for the growth of various crops, including wheat, oats, and strawberries. In the mid-20th century, Oregon State University (formerly Oregon Agricultural College) in Corvallis became a major driving force behind the county's economy, as its research and educational programs contributed to technological innovation and industrial diversification.
Today, Benton County continues to thrive as a vibrant and dynamic community. With a focus on sustainability, the county embraces its agricultural heritage while also being a hub for technology and innovation. Home to a diverse population and renowned educational institutions, Benton County remains a place where history, nature, and progress intersect.
Benton County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Benton County, Oregon.
- 1847: The Oregon territorial government creates Benton County.
- 1851: Philomath College, now known as Oregon State University, is established.
- 1862: Corvallis becomes the county seat.
- 1893: The first electric power plant in the county is built in Corvallis.
- 1908: The William Jasper Kerr Research Center, now part of Oregon State University, is founded in Corvallis.
- 1922: The first county library is established in Monroe.
- 1943: Camp Adair, a World War II military training camp, is established near Corvallis.
- 1952: The Greenberry Store, the oldest continually operating store in Oregon, is established in Philomath.
- 2007: The Philomath Frolic and Rodeo celebrates its 60th anniversary.
- 2011: The county commemorates its 150th anniversary with various events and activities.