Monmouth, Oregon 2025

Monmouth is a city located in Polk County, Oregon, United States. The population was 10,155 at the 2020 census.

Monmouth is home to Western Oregon University, which was established in 1856 as a teachers' college and is now one of the oldest universities in the American West.

Monmouth's earliest known inhabitants were the Santiam Kalapuya, who were part of the Kalapuya tribe that once inhabited the area.

The city has a mayor and a four-member city council, who are elected to serve four-year terms. The current mayor is John B. Smith. There are also various committees appointed by the council to handle issues such as planning, parks and recreation, and public works.

The city is known for its annual Monmouth Oyster Festival, which has been held every August since 1973. The event attracts thousands of visitors who come to enjoy oysters, live music, craft vendors, and other activities. Other popular festivals include the Monmouth Wine and Art Festival, held in June, and the Monmouth-Independence Daze, held in July.

Monmouth is noted for being the birthplace of the Oregon statehood movement - Oregon's first and second constitutions were drafted and signed here in 1844 and 1859, respectively. The city is also home to the Monmouth Museum, which features exhibits on local history and the Willamette Heritage Center, which showcases the history of the Willamette Valley.

The city has a 216-acre park system with three parks, including the Monmouth City Park, which features a playground, sports fields, picnic areas, and a skate park. The city also offers community sports programs for both children and adults, including baseball, softball, and soccer leagues.

Monmouth has a mix of small-town charm and modern amenities, with a strong sense of community and a focus on preserving its history and culture.