Introduction to Wilsonville, Oregon

Wilsonville, a city primarily located in Clackamas County, Oregon, is a thriving community that has grown significantly since its founding in 1880. Initially known as Boones Landing, the city was renamed Wilsonville in honor of the first postmaster, Charles Wilson. The city was incorporated in 1969 and has since developed into a hub of community life and commerce in the Portland metropolitan area.

Located on the banks of the Willamette River, Wilsonville has a rich history that has shaped its growth and development. The city was once the site of Boones Ferry, which was established by Alphonso Boone, grandson of the legendary pioneer Daniel Boone. This gave rise to a bustling community that eventually became known as Wilsonville.

Education and Public Services in Wilsonville

The city is also home to Wilsonville High School, the only traditional high school in the area, and has satellite campuses for both Clackamas Community College and Oregon Tech.

Today, Wilsonville is a bustling city that is home to several technology companies, including Mentor Graphics, and Stream Global Services, the city’s largest employer. The city is also a significant distribution and manufacturing hub, with several regional distribution facilities for companies like Coca-Cola and Rite Aid.

Wilsonville’s strategic location near Interstate 5, coupled with public transportation provided by South Metro Area Regional Transit, offers easy access to the Portland-based TriMet system. This makes Wilsonville an ideal location for families and individuals seeking a balance of urban convenience and suburban tranquility.

Notably, Wilsonville is home to planned communities like Charbonneau and Villebois, which add to the city's charm and residential appeal. It also boasts retail centers like Argyle Square and the Town Center Shopping Center that offer a variety of shopping options for residents and visitors alike.

A Brief History of Wilsonville

The city operates its own library, public works, and parks & recreation department, adding to the quality of life for residents. The Wilsonville Public Library is a particular gem, having been expanded to nearly four times its original size.

Wilsonville is not just a city of industry and commerce, it also has a rich cultural scene. Media in Wilsonville includes Portland area broadcast stations, regional newspapers, and the local Wilsonville Spokesman newspaper.

Looking ahead, Wilsonville shows no sign of slowing down. The city continues to evolve and grow, attracting new businesses and residents with its strong economy, excellent public services, and vibrant community life. Whether you're visiting or thinking of moving here, Wilsonville, Oregon offers a unique blend of history, community, and opportunity.

Attractions in Wilsonville

Benny's Donuts

Bullwinkle's

Swire Coca-Cola, USA Production Plant

Yesteryear Farms

Wilsonville, Oregon, has a history that is rich and diverse, taking us back to the mid-1800s. Named after Charles Wilson, the city's first postmaster, Wilsonville has grown from a small, riverside community into a bustling city with its unique charm and strong sense of community.

The first settlement in what would become Wilsonville was founded in 1846 by Alphonso Boone, grandson of the famous explorer Daniel Boone. Boone established the Boones Ferry, which crossed the Willamette River, providing an essential transportation link in the area. This gave rise to the community of Boones Landing, which would later evolve into the city of Wilsonville.

Initially, Wilsonville was part of Yamhill County, but it was transferred to Clackamas County in 1855. The post office was established in 1876, bearing the name Boones Ferry, further imprinting Boone’s influence on the burgeoning town. However, on June 3, 1880, the community adopted the name Wilsonville, in honor of Charles Wilson.

The city saw steady growth and development over the years. By 1890, the railroad had reached the town, bringing with it increased trade and prosperity. Wilsonville was soon home to several hotels, a saloon, a bank, and many other commercial establishments.

The year 1897 saw the merging of the twelve school districts in the vicinity of Wilsonville, creating a unified education system. It was also during this time that the Oregon Electric Railway bridge was constructed across the river, marking a significant development in the city's transport infrastructure.

The 20th century brought more changes and growth to Wilsonville. In 1910, a new Methodist church was built, serving the community until 1988. The city was also home to the Dammasch State Hospital, a mental health facility that opened in 1961. Despite experiencing a major flood in 1964, the resilient city continued to grow, building its first fire station in 1966.

October 10, 1968, marked a pivotal moment in Wilsonville's history, when it was officially incorporated as a city, boasting a population of about 1,000 residents. From there, the city experienced a period of rapid growth, with its population swelling to 2,920 by 1980.

In the following years, Wilsonville expanded its services, including opening its first library and starting a city police protection system. The city also began to attract major tech companies, contributing to its economic growth. By 1990, the city's population had ballooned to 7,106, reflecting the city's attractiveness as a place to live and work.

Despite some challenges, such as the closure of the Dammasch State Hospital and the controversial construction of the Coffee Creek Correctional Facility, Wilsonville continued to flourish. In 2002, a new water treatment plant was opened, addressing the city's water supply issues and paving the way for further development.

Today, Wilsonville is a thriving city known for its strong community, top-notch schools, and robust economy. Its rich history is etched in its landscape, from the Boone Ferry Park to the historic Old Town neighborhood. The journey of Wilsonville from a small riverside settlement to a prosperous city is a testament to the resilience and enduring spirit of its residents.

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