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.

Veterans Day was first known as Armistice Day and celebrated on November 11 to commemorate the end of World War I, which ended on t the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918. In the United States, November 11th was celebrated to honor Veterans of World War I until June 1, 1954, when November 11th became a day to honor American Veterans of all wars.

The Oregon Department of Veterans' Affairs is hosting the Statewide Veterans Day Ceremony at 11 a.m. on Nov. 11, in front of the Oregon State Capitol on Court Street NE in Salem. This event will feature remarks by dignitaries and special guests along with ceremonial elements including a color guard, singing of the national anthem, a wreath laying and the playing of “Taps.” For more information please visit: https://www.oregon.gov/odva/

November is Native American Heritage month. Native American Awareness Week began in 1976 and recognition was expanded by Congress in August 1, 1990, designating the month of November as National American Indian Heritage Month. If you are interested in participating in events to Celebrate indigenous heritage this month – there will be restoration Pow-wows for both the Siletz and Grand Ronde – The Siletz are celebrating their 48th annual restoration pow wow and the Grand Ronde are celebrating their 42nd. For more information on these pow wows, please visit each of the respective tribal websites – ctsi.nsn.us and grandronde.org

Our Historic Landmarks Commission and historic preservation staff have completed research into the early residents of Salem who have documented their experiences and relationships with the indigenous people who had been living in the Willamette Valley since time immemorial. One of these people we’ve researched is Lewis Judson whose recollections of the early history of Salem can be found in of the 1955 Marion County History Volume 1, published by the Marion County Historical Society in their article: “Remembrances of Lewis Judson…”compiled by George G. Strozut, Jr. . Judson recalls the numerous deaths at Chemawa Indian School before the turn of the century (usually caused by tuberculosis). The OPB Documentary “Uncovering Boarding Schools: Stories of Resistance and Resilience” follows the journey of Klamath Tribes member Gabriann “Abby” Hall as she uncovers the hidden stories of her family’s experiences in Native American boarding schools in Oregon, stretching from the first generation forced onto a reservation to the present era. To learn more about Boarding schools in Oregon you can view the OPB documentary available on the PBS App, the PBS website, or on OPB TV.