Historic Buildings of Newberg, Oregon

Newberg, a charming city in Yamhill County, Oregon, boasts a rich history that is reflected in its well-preserved historic buildings. These architectural gems offer a glimpse into the city’s past and the lives of its early residents. Let’s explore some of the most notable historic buildings in Newberg.

Wood-Mar Hall

Built in 1910, Wood-Mar Hall is the oldest building on the George Fox University campus. This three-story brick building, with its distinctive Spanish-style cornice, has been a dominant presence in Newberg for over a century. It was named after Amanda Woodward and Evangeline Martin, two Quaker women who led the fundraising campaign for its construction.

Originally, Wood-Mar Hall housed classrooms, a library, and faculty and administrative offices. The third-floor auditorium served as the community’s cultural center, hosting recitals, plays, concerts, lectures, and debates. Today, after several renovations, it continues to be an integral part of the university and the city.

Jesse Edwards House

The Jesse Edwards House, built in 1883, is the second-oldest residence in Newberg. Jesse Edwards, known as the “Father of Newberg” and one of the founders of George Fox University, constructed this Victorian-style home. The house features a wrap-around porch, turned Tuscan Doric porch columns, bracketed cornices, and shuttered windows.

The Edwards House played a significant role in the early days of Newberg, with its spacious music room serving as a meeting place for the founding Quakers. In 1998, descendants of the Edwards family donated the house to the university, and it now serves as the residence for university presidents.

Minthorn Hall

Minthorn Hall, constructed in 1887, predates the establishment of George Fox University. It is famous for being the childhood home of former U.S. President Herbert Hoover, who lived there with his uncle and aunt, Dr. Henry John and Laura Ellen Minthorn.

Originally built for Friends Pacific Academy, the predecessor of George Fox University, Minthorn Hall was relocated to its current location in 1892. The building has served various purposes over the years, including housing classrooms, a dormitory, and offices.

Paulson-Gregory House

The Paulson-Gregory House, located at 509 S. College Street, is a unique example of the face brick over hollow tiles construction method used by the Willamina Clay Products Company. Jesse Edwards, the founder of Newberg, established this company as the only brick factory in the state.

The house is one of only two brick residences in the City of Newberg Historic Resources Inventory and the only one featuring the distinctive yellow brick produced by the Willamina Clay Products Company. Its inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places highlights its architectural significance.

Morris, Miles, and Company Building

Erected in 1891, the Morris, Miles, and Company Building was Newberg’s first commercial brick building. This historic structure, located in the heart of downtown, stands as a testament to the city’s early development and the importance of commerce in the community.

Preserving Newberg’s History

The Newberg Area Historical Society (NAHS) is dedicated to preserving, presenting, and promoting the history of Newberg and its surrounding areas. Through research, preservation, funding, and outreach, NAHS aims to be the go-to resource for local history.

One of the ways NAHS engages with the community is through its Newberg History Walking Tours. These tours, typically held during the Old Fashioned Festival, offer participants an opportunity to learn about the city’s historic buildings and the stories behind them.

These historic buildings not only provide a tangible connection to the past of Newberg, Oregon but also contribute to its unique character and sense of place. By preserving and celebrating these architectural treasures, Newberg ensures that future generations can appreciate the city’s rich history and the legacy of its early residents. Additionally, the presence of contemporary art galleries enriches the cultural landscape, offering a platform for local artists and fostering community engagement through creative expression.