In 1850 - 1855, a Law in Oregon was passed called the "Donation Land Claim Act of 1850".
Any single white male citizen 18 years or older would be entitled to a grant of 320 acres for homesteading lands and any married man would be allowed 640 acres.

Both husband and wife were allowed to own half in each of their own individual names.
This was one of the first Laws passed that enabled married women to own property in their own name.

The Law also allowed Native Americans who were considered "half-blooded" to be eligible to hold property under their name as well.

All claimants were required by Law to cultivate and reside on the land for 4 years before they were allowed to fully own it. This Law lead to the widespread promotion of emigration of settlers to homestead settlements in the new Oregon Territory of the Pacific Northwest.

Oregon bound Wagon Trains were filled with hopes and dreams of new beginnings in their westward bound journey.

In 1853, the towns name of Albany, was briefly changed to 'Takenah', which ment "deep pool where the rivers meet".

Strong currents had over time carved a large hole where 2 rivers met, the Calapooia River and the Willamette River. The hole was nestled near the Calapooia Rivers bank creating a deep pool. Local Kalapuyan People living within the middle Willamette Valley used this word 'Takenak' to describe the unusual intersection where the rivers met.

Humorously, many settlers misinterpreted the name's meaning, calling it the "hole-in the ground" which did not sit well with local settlers. Eventually, in 1855, the name 'Takenah' was Legislatively changed back to Albany for not being seen as a proper name for a new and upcoming city.

Today, in Albany, you will find a varied collection of 700 historic buildings ranging from the 1840's to the 1920's which are located in the city.

Finding out more about the city and its historic districts can be done by either exploring and strolling about on your own by foot, driving from point to point, or by contacting a local organized tour.

Discovering many of the hidden treasures of Albany is well worth a visit to experience and find:

Museums, Restaurants, Historic District, Eleanor-Hackleman Park, Monteith House, Rose Gardens, Wineries, nearby Covered Bridges, great Schools and Linn-Benton College, the Linn County Fair, RV Parks, superb Lodging, Bed and Breakfasts, Art Galleries, Recreational Activities, Golfing, Hiking, Biking, great Hotels and Motels, Shopping, Antique Shops, Theatres, and much more…

However you find your way though the city and its points of interest, you will be more than pleased you dropped by Albany, Oregon.