by Denise Seith

Created on: March 12, 2009   Last Updated: April 18, 2011

Tour the Bush House Museum

How would you like to buy 100 prime acres of land and a house for just $4,000? In 1860, Asahel Bush II did just that- right in the middle of Salem. What a deal! He and his family lived in that original home until 1877, and then it was moved to make way for a grand new residence- known today as the Bush House Museum.

If you enjoy touring authentic historic homes rather than re-creations, head to Salem and have a look at the Italianate-style Victorian Bush House. The term "Victorian" refers to the reign of Queen Victoria, who ruled Great Britain from 1837 to 1901. The "Italianate" style was inspired by the architecture of Italian villas, and was popular in the United States from 1850 to 1880.

Asahel Bush II was a pioneer newspaperman, banker, and businessman whose influence shaped the history of both the city of Salem and the state of Oregon. He was 54 years old when the Bush House was constructed, and resided there until his death in 1913 at age 89. His daughters continued to live in the house after his passing. Sally, who died in 1946, was the last of the Bush family to live there.

Since members of the Bush family lived in the house for over seventy-five years, much of what once belonged to Mr. Bush and his four children has remained displayed in the home (Mrs. Bush never lived here; she passed away before the house was completed). Finished in1878, the home was constructed with rare amenities for the time period- indoor plumbing, hot and cold running water, gaslights, and central heating (although the house's ten marble fireplaces would have been sufficient). In the backyard, the oldest conservatory (greenhouse) in Oregon, dating from 1882, contains dozens of plants. Green thumbs should definitely take a peek inside at the rare and unusual varieties.

The Bush House is owned and maintained by the City of Salem and operated as a museum by the Salem Art Association. It has been open for guided tours since 1953, and was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1974. Unique exhibits and events take place here throughout the year. From now until May 10, a special collection of vintage purses and gloves are on display.

The Bush House Museum is surrounded by Bush's Pasture Park. One hundred acres of historic oak trees and landscaped rose gardens, once part of the family estate, now offer a great place for everyone to play and picnic. Kids especially love the fun "crooked house" playground. An historic barn, also on the property, has been transformed into the Bush Barn Art Center. The building now houses two contemporary exhibition galleries and a consignment and rental gallery. The administrative offices for the Salem Art Association are also here.

Bush's Pasture Park is also home to the annual Salem Art Fair & Festival, one of Oregon's premier cultural events. The festival features over 200 top artists and craftspeople from around the country offering their work in a variety of mediums- painting, ceramics, glass, jewelry, wood, photography and fiber. Live music, food courts, wine and beer gardens, and much more are part of the free 3-day celebration.

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