551 Commercial Street NE
This small 3.2 acre park is located in downtown Salem.
Facilities:
Restroom
Play equipment
Picnic tables
Lighted basketball court
Skate bowl and ramp
Drinking fountain
History
Marion Square was plotted in 1850 by W.H. Willson. Willson Park and Marion Square are the two oldest parks in the City. The mature stand of fir trees, which can be seen from many parts of the downtown area, were about 20 feet tall at the time the square was laid out. The park enjoys a great deal of historical significance. At the turn of the century, a fine residential development surrounded the park and extended along Front Street.
In the late 40's, the construction of the Marion Street Bridge and the growth of Salem changed the character of the area. The appearance of the park was further altered by the 1962 Columbus Day storm when huge fir trees were blown over and others severely damaged.
On warm summer days, tourists, visitors and towns people can be seen picnicking in the park. The Saturday Market was initiated in the summer of 1974, and discontinued in 1975 because of low attendance. The park acts as a vital link of open space between the Willamette River and the north end of the central business district. Future downtown and riverfront renewal plans will eventually restore the prominence and importance of Marion Square.
The restroom was replaced in fall 2005 with a premanufactured concrete restroom. Funding for the project was from a Community Development Block Grant.
 
|
