Nesmith Park
Text from the Nesmith Park Entrance Sign
History: The Polk County Parks and Recreation Commission and the Polk County Fair Board joined forces in 1969 to acquire 21.5 acres of land adjacent to the Polk County Fairgounds for a Park. It was their desire to recognize the burial site of Polk County Pioneer, James Nesmith, and to provide joint use of the property for Park and Fairgrounds.
SENATOR JAMES WILLIS NESMITH
Born of American parents in New Brunswick, Canada, July 23, 1820, Nesmith emerged upon the Oregon scene as a member of the great migration of 1843. Arriving at Oregon City that year, he soon began a study of Law. In 1846, he married Pauline Goff and took up a donation Land Claim in Polk County. This American Patriot and Oregon Pioneer achieved a remarkable degree of success in life;
JUDGE in the SUPREME COURT of the PROVISIONAL GOVERNMENT 1846
U.S. MARSHALL 1853 - 1855
COLONEL IN INDIAN WARS 1855
SUPERINTENDENT OF INDIAN AFFAIRS 1857
U.S. SENATOR 1861 - 1867
REPRESENTATIVE IN CONGRESS 1873
After his term in Congress, he returned to his Farm in Rickreall in 1875, ending his Government Service. Senator Nesmith died June 17, 1885, and was buried in the family cemetary now a part of NESMITH PARK."
| Park Season: | May 1 - Sept 30 (Weather Permitting) |
| Hours: | Sunrise to 1/2 Hour After Sunset |
| Facilities: | Picnic Tables Porta-Potty (No Running Water) Fire Pits Open Fields Fishing Scenic Trails NO OVERNIGHT CAMPING |
| Location: | Located in Rickreall, adjacent to the Polk County Fairgrounds See Map, Below |
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Supporting Documents
Nesmith Park Map (2 MB) 