Salem’s History and Why We’re Proud to Serve the Salem Community
Salem sits on former prairie lands along the Willamette River. Methodist missionaries established a mission near the Kalapuyan village of Tchimikiti (Chemeketa) in 1841 and named the new town “Salem” in 1846. It became the seat of Marion County in 1849, briefly served as territorial capital (1851–52), and incorporated in 1857; by popular vote in 1864 it became Oregon’s permanent state capital.
Early Salem thrived around sawmills, gristmills and agriculture, benefiting from its central location in the Willamette Valley. The city’s population doubled or tripled each decade after the 1870s, reflecting steady economic growth. By 2020 the population reached 175,535.
The state government remains Salem’s largest employer and the capitol’s domed silhouette dominates the downtown skyline. Government offices, Willamette University (founded 1842), and nearby vineyards sustain the local economy.
Modern Salem has about 176,666 residents and a median household income of roughly $71,900. Its parks, historic districts and cultural institutions make it a vibrant capital city. We’re proud to support Salem’s homes and businesses with reliable plumbing services.