Historic Resources - Independence Heritage Museum

December 7, 2017 Episode.

This fall, we have been showcasing the many cultural and historic venues we have available to enjoy within a short distance from our own homes.  Today we talked with Shannon Cockayne , the museum assistant for the Independence Heritage Museum. Shannon assists director/curator Peggy Smith in managing the museum and its collections. 

The Independence Heritage Museum operates under the auspices of the City of Independence and is located in the 1888 First Baptist Church on the corner of 3rd & C Streets [see the current and historic photos, left, courtesy of their Facebook page].   The church was sold to the City in 1975, and the museum opened on July 4, 1976.

They are open Wednesday through Saturdays, 1-5 p.m., or by special appointment. 

The museum has an internship program with Western Oregon University, and the students'  current projects include translating their kiosk information panels into Spanish, translating some of the Ghost Walk stories into Spanish, and providing some Spanish-speaking docents. As Hispanics have a long history in the area and currently comprise 36% of Independence's population, this is a worthy endeavor.  Volunteers of all backgrounds are always appreciated in our local heritage organizations, and the Heritage Museum offers many opportunities that may interest you. You can contact them through their website or Facebook page, or phone them at 503-838-4989.

Shannon admitted that one of her favorite exhibits at the museum is the Doctors Exhibit because it was both informative and creepy. We found a photograph of curator Peggy Ann Smith talking with visitors in this exhibit, to give you a flavor of what you'll discover when you visit. One of the Facebook posts I found interesting detailed the story behind "cross-hairs" with a local twist, so I've added it here, too.

We do hope you'll take time to visit this venue. You'll discover information on the towns in the area that no longer thrive, or even exist, such as Buena Vista with its famous pottery clay, as well as the history of the "other" Independence--the one at the end of the Oregon Trail--that once reigned as the Hop Capital of the World.  Check it out!

~~Posted by Deb Meaghers