Bush's Pasture Park

Historic Origins

Bush's Pasture Park is a 90.5-acre public park located in the heart of Salem, Oregon. The park, which dates back to the 19th century, was once the farmstead of the prominent Bush family and is now a cherished green space in the city.

It features a blend of historical significance and natural beauty, offering visitors a glimpse into Salem's past while providing ample recreational opportunities.

Natural Landscape

The park is home to groves of native Oregon White Oak trees, which shelter seasonal camas fields and wildflowers. These oak savannahs are remnants of the landscape that sustained the Kalapuya people for centuries before European settlement.

Walking trails meander through the park, connecting open pastures, wooded areas, and formal gardens, allowing visitors to explore the diverse ecosystems within the park.

Historic Buildings

One of the park's central features is the Asahel Bush House, an Italianate Victorian mansion built in 1878. Now operated as the Bush House Museum, it offers guided tours that showcase period furnishings and original wallpapers, providing insight into 19th-century life in Salem.

Adjacent to the house is the Bush Conservatory, built in 1882 and believed to be one of the oldest conservatories in the Pacific Northwest.

Gardens and Horticulture

The park boasts a Municipal Rose Garden, which contains over 2,000 roses and is a popular spot for weddings and photography. The Rhododendron Hillside Garden and a flowering tree collection add to the park's horticultural appeal.

These gardens, along with other landscaped areas, were influenced by the work of pioneering landscape architects Elizabeth Lord and Edith Schryver.

Art and Community

For art enthusiasts, the Bush Barn Art Center, housed in the estate's former barn, features contemporary art exhibitions and a craft gallery. The park hosts various community events throughout the year, including the annual Salem Art Fair and Festival.

Bush's Pasture Park serves multiple purposes for the community, offering spaces for recreation, education, and cultural enrichment. Its blend of natural areas, historic structures, and curated gardens make it a unique and valued resource in Salem.