Benjamin Cornelius Jr. House facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Benjamin Cornelius Jr. House
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U.S. Historic district
Contributing property |
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The Cornelius House in 2009
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 Location in the United States
Location in Oregon
Location in Forest Grove OR
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| Location | 2314 19th Avenue Forest Grove, Oregon |
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| Built | c. 1873 |
| Built by | Harley McDonald |
| Architect | Harley McDonald |
| Architectural style | Italianate, with Colonial and Gothic details |
| Part of | Clark Historic District (ID02000617) |
| NRHP reference No. | 88001034 |
| Added to NRHP | July 14, 1988 |
The Benjamin Cornelius Jr. House is a special old home in Forest Grove, Oregon. It's also known as the Benjamin Cornelius Jr. and Rachel McKinney Cornelius House. This historic house was built around 1873 by a skilled carpenter named Harley McDonald. He was one of the first people to design buildings in Oregon. This house is one of only two homes McDonald designed that are still standing in Forest Grove today.
The house has a unique look with its Italianate style and Gothic details. These styles make it stand out in Forest Grove. Around 1900, a veranda (a covered porch) was added, which has a Colonial design.
Benjamin and Rachel Cornelius were the first people to live in this house. They traveled the Oregon Trail in 1845 using a path called the Meek Cutoff. The Cornelius family played a big part in starting the towns of Hillsboro and Cornelius. Benjamin was also very involved in buying and selling land in the area. Benjamin Cornelius passed away in 1881 while living in this house.
The Benjamin Cornelius Jr. House was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1988. This means it's recognized as an important historical site. In 2002, it also became part of the Clark Historic District.
Discovering the Cornelius House
This house is a great example of early architecture in Oregon. It shows how homes were built and designed in the late 1800s.
Who Were Benjamin and Rachel Cornelius?
Benjamin and Rachel Cornelius were pioneers who helped shape Oregon. They were among the brave people who traveled west on the Oregon Trail. Their journey in 1845 was a big adventure.
The Oregon Trail Journey
The Oregon Trail was a long and difficult path. Pioneers like the Corneliuses traveled thousands of miles. They faced many challenges to reach Oregon and start new lives. The Meek Cutoff was a shortcut they took, which was often risky.
Building New Communities
The Cornelius family was very active in settling the area. They helped establish important towns like Hillsboro and Cornelius. Benjamin Cornelius was also involved in land deals, which helped new communities grow.
The Architect: Harley McDonald
Harley McDonald was more than just a carpenter. He was one of the first people in Oregon to offer architectural services. This means he designed buildings, not just built them.
McDonald's Unique Designs
The Benjamin Cornelius Jr. House is special because it's one of only two homes designed by McDonald that are still standing in Forest Grove. His designs blended different styles, making his buildings unique.
Architectural Styles of the House
The house combines several interesting architectural styles. These styles give it a distinct look.
Italianate Features
The main style of the house is Italianate. This style was popular in the mid-1800s. Italianate homes often have low-pitched roofs, wide eaves, and tall, narrow windows.
Gothic and Colonial Details
You can also see Gothic details on the house. Gothic Revival style often includes pointed arches and decorative trim. The Colonial style veranda, added later, gives the house a classic, welcoming feel.
Preserving History
The Benjamin Cornelius Jr. House is important because it tells a story about Oregon's past. Protecting places like this helps us learn about the people who came before us.
National Register of Historic Places
Being on the National Register of Historic Places means the house is recognized nationally for its historical value. This helps protect it for future generations.
Part of a Historic District
The house is also part of the Clark Historic District. This district includes many historic buildings in Forest Grove. Being part of a district helps preserve the overall historical character of the neighborhood.
