Welcome to Jefferson, Oregon!

Jefferson’s History (as remembered in 1950). Near present day Jefferson, at the site of the first ferry enabling pioneers to travel southward, a town called Santiam City was laid out in 1851.

Devastating floods destroyed Santiam City and the ferry crossing. Jacob Conser started another ferry crossing shortly thereafter at a site donated by Conser and James Bates, that in 1860, would be called Jefferson. A post office was established in 1861 and the town was platted in 1866. The ferry continued to operate until 1882. During those days, the city served as a shipping center for the Santiam River.

Old concrete arch bridge over a river with green trees in the background.
A white two-story house with a lush garden and blooming flowers in the foreground. A stone pathway leads to the porch, surrounded by greenery and trees.

In 1870, the first train rolled into town and was hailed by a huge celebration. The first store was said to have been established by a Mr. King “with a few bolts of flannel, calico and salt”. The first church was erected in 1858, the Odd Fellows organized in 1860 and the Masons obtained a charter in 1862.

Sometime prior to 1853, the first school was established to accommodate the large families of original settlers and was later expanded to include the newly arrived families. Later, additional schools were established and combined in 1856. In 1857, the Jefferson Institute was incorporated, making it one of the earliest chartered schools in the state.

Red banner with "Jefferson Oregon" and "Est. 1870" against a blue sky.
Victorian-style house with a picket fence and garden

Community

In 1854, Jacob Conser build a two story residence which has served as a Hotel, City Hall, and a library.  The Conser House was placed on The National Registry of Historic Properties in 1974 and remains the cornerstone of historic preservation within the city.

Jefferson is now a thriving community of 3,200 residents, many of which are descended from the original pioneer families. Although primarily a bedroom community to larger cities, Jeffersonians enjoy the annual Festival of Flowers in May and the Mint Festival in July as well as library, Teen Connection and Community Center.

Two-story yellow house with a porch, decorated with pumpkins, surrounded by green grass and autumn trees.

Tour Guide

  • Jacob Conser House, 114 N. Main St. Est. 1854

  • Judy Residence, 104 N. Main St. Est. 1900

  • Jefferson Community Center, 107 N. Main St. Est. 1905

  • Zeilman Residence, 212 Ferry St. Est. 1860

  • Giffin Residence, 207 N. Main St. Est. 1910

  • Menken Residence, 220 N. Main St. Est. 1912

  • Schwarz Residence, 253 N. Main St. Est. 1877

  • Methodist Church, 310 N. 2nd St. Est. 1859 

  • Millette Residence, 392 N. 2nd St. Est. 1920

  • Phillips Residence, 426 N. 2nd St. Est. 1910

  • Foster Residence, 421 N. 2nd St. Est. 1901

  • Howell Residence, 315 N. 2nd St. Est. 1910

  • Jefferson Elementary School, 615 N. 2nd St. Est. 1929

  • Ammon Residence, 310 Church St. Est. 1910

  • Manning residence, 245 S. 3rd St. Est. 1901

  • Cheek Residence, 320 E. Union St. Est. 1900

Map of Jefferson, Oregon showing streets and notable locations

More to see

There are many other historic buildings on your walking tour. You will find more historic buildings further north on 2nd St. (Highway 99), on 3rd St. and on S. Main St. After viewing #4 on the list, walk a little further South to Mill and Ferry Streets to view the railroad bridge built in 1906. Right next to is is also the Jacob Conser Bridge designed by Conde B. McCullough, built in 1933. Look to the East and West to enjoy the view of the Santiam River.

To find Jefferson’s historic cemetery established in 1850, drive north on 2nd street (Highway 99), turn right on North Avenue and follow Cemetery Road up the hill. Open hours are dawn to dusk. Please be respectful of private property and enjoy your tour.

Arch bridge over a river with trees and greenery in the background.

Thank you for allowing us to share our proud heritage with you and please feel free to come back anytime.