Newell House Museum facts for kids
The Newell House Museum, also known as the Robert Newell House, is a cool historical place in Champoeg, Oregon, United States. It was built way back in 1852 by an important Oregon leader named Robert Newell. Today, it's a museum run by a group called the Oregon State Society, Daughters of the American Revolution. The museum first opened its doors in 1959 after being carefully rebuilt.
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What is the Newell House Museum?
The Newell House Museum is a special place where you can step back in time. It shows what life was like in Oregon during the 1800s. The museum is part of a bigger area called the Champoeg State Heritage Area. It's also known as the Newell Pioneer Village.
Who was Robert Newell?
Robert Newell was an important person in early Oregon history. He was a politician, which means he helped make rules and decisions for the area. He built this house in 1852. It was his home and a place where he lived with his family.
What can you see inside?
Inside the museum, you'll find many interesting items from the 1800s. These include old quilts and beautiful textiles. You can also see handmade crafts and antique firearms. There are even fancy gowns worn by the wives of Oregon's Governors at their special parties.
The museum also has blankets made by Native American groups from the West Coast. You can see Robert Newell's special Masonic items. There's also old spinning equipment and looms, which were used to make cloth.
Other cool buildings at the Village
Besides the main house, there are other historic buildings at the Newell Pioneer Village.
- An old jail from 1849 was moved here in 1959.
- An old schoolhouse from 1858 was also moved to the property in 1959. The schoolhouse shows what a classroom looked like back then. It also has a small area where the teacher lived.
- Between 2013 and 2015, the Pioneer Mothers Memorial Cabin Museum was also brought to the property.
Visiting the Newell Pioneer Village
The entire complex, known as the Newell Pioneer Village, includes a lovely garden. The Oregon State Society Daughters of the American Revolution still manages it. You can visit the Newell Pioneer Village from March to October. It's a great place to learn about Oregon's past!