Few people realize that West Salem was an independent town for over 30 years. From its early development in the mid-19th century—when valley homesteaders grew wheat, hops, and fruits—to the founding of Fairview School in 1868, the opening of the Center Street Bridge across the Willamette River in 1886, the rail line in 1909, and a city charter in 1913 to the surrender of that charter to Salem in 1949, the West Salem area forged its own unique identity. Today, West Salem is a thriving community full of cherished memories alongside physical reminders of its independence, such as the Art Deco–style city hall and jailhouse. To learn more you can check out the West Salem Images of America book by Lynn Mack, Deb Meaghers and Kimberli Fitzgerald published in 2011 by Arcadia Publishing about the history of West Salem, which includes some great historic photos.

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