The Rose Farm
The William L. Holmes House Museum
Our History
William and Louisa Holmes were pioneers who joined the ‘great migration‘ in 1843. More than 900 souls traveled the trail west that year. The Holmes family settled on a 640-acre land claim at the south edge of Oregon City. They lived in a log cabin with a view of Mt. Hood (42 miles east). Water came from a nearby spring, probably the source of Singer Creek, which empties into the Willamette River after cascading down the bluff near Main Street in Oregon City.
Their home, completed in 1847, is the oldest American home in Oregon City and was the scene of early government meetings and many social events. The first territorial governor, Joseph Lane, gave his 1849 inaugural address from the balcony of the Rose Farm, and the celebrants gathered on the lawn below.
The claim was nicknamed the ‘Rose Farm’ by friends and neighbors because of the many roses Louisa planted in the garden.
Our amazing volunteers help to maintain the grounds at the Rose Farm, including a host of beautiful flower beds. Thanks to their efforts and the help of the Portland Rose Society, we have been able to identify most of the roses we have. This is an ongoing effort, as we continue to work on our outdoor space.
The Rose Garden
Visit Us
536 Holmes Ln.
Oregon City, OR 97045
The Rose Farm is located 536 Holmes Lane, at the corner of Holmes Lane & Rilance Lane in Oregon City. There is street parking on Rilance Ln.
Hours and Admission
Adults- $5 Seniors - $4 Youth (6-17)- $3 Children 5 and under- Free
Open from 12 to 4 for events
mcloughlinmemorial@gmail.com