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The Creeks of Salem
Salem has had an abundance of waterways from its earliest
days. It is believed that in ancient times the North Santiam
River emptied into the Willamette River by flowing through
what is now downtown Salem rather than flowing south of
the city as it does today. Mill Creek, perhaps Salem's
best known creek, originates in the hills on the south
edge of Silver Falls State Park. In the period 1840 to
1841 missionaries built Salem's first grist and saw mill
along this waterway. Unfortunately, the mill was frequently
idle because of the light flow of water in Mill Creek.
In 1855 this situation was rectified when settlers cut
through the gravel bar at Stayton, east of Salem, thus
bringing Santiam River water into Mill Creek. Learn
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How Pringle Creek Got Its Name
Pringle Creek is formed from several smaller streams.
It flows between Bush's Pasture Park and historic Deepwood
estate and along the south side of Pringle Park. The reference
Oregon Geographic Names, on page 690 states that Pringle
Creek was named after Virgil K. Pringle, who arrived in
Salem December 25, 1846. He took a donation land claim
near the stream which accordingly he named for himself.
This stream rises in the hills south of Salem, and flows
through the southern part of the town. The other adjoining
buildings and features in the area accordingly took the
name of the creek in their names as well, such as Pringle
Park Plaza. Learn More
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