There's so much history to be discovered in Albany and Corvallis, from fascinating museums to the many historic buildings which have been preserved into the present day. Albany's historic districts each offer something unique to see, including historic homes, businesses, and museums that tell the story of how the community has developed over centuries. Our real estate agents have the details on what to expect from Albany's historic districts and attractions.

Monteith District

The Monteith brothers were Scottish immigrants who moved to Oregon from Albany, NY, and played a key role in starting the city of Albany, OR, that we all enjoy today. The Monteith District, which bears their family name, is home to the Monteith House museum, which showcases the history of both the family and the community they helped start, all housed in a beautifully, authentically restored historic home.

Nearby, you'll discover the Albany Historic Carousel and Museum, the perfect place for getting kids interested in local history. The carousel is historically accurate to the period when it was first built more than a century ago and has been updated with hand-carved, hand-painted wooden animals. After the kids have had their fun riding the carousel, be sure to check out the museum and gift shop, which are located at the same site.

This district is also where you'll find some of Albany's most spectacularly designed historic churches, with the English Gothic-style United Presbyterian Church, as well as the towering spires and Carpenter Gothic design of the Whitespires Church, which was constructed in 1891. You can download a guided walking tour of the Monteith District, provided by the Albany Visitors Association, to ensure that you get to visit every interesting landmark.

Hackleman District

The Hackleman District is largely a residential district, though it is home to St. Paul's Methodist Church, the earliest church building in Albany that's still in existence today. The big highlights in this district, however, are the spectacular historic homes that were built here. The Chamberlain House, the historic home of former Oregon Governor and Senator George Chamberlain is still known as the tallest home in Albany. The Ralston House, located across the street, is known for its stained-glass windows and ornate design, while the Goltra House was the first plaster-walled house in the city.

Downtown Commercial District

The Downtown Commercial District features one of the largest concentrations of historic buildings in Albany, which is no surprise since this is where the Monteith brothers opened the community's first general store. Today, the Downtown Commercial District features historic homes and businesses built from when the community was settled in the 1840s through the early 1900s. Notable buildings include the Flinn Block, constructed in 1887, the Straney & More Livery Stable, built in 1892, along with many other buildings converted into present-day homes and businesses.

Airport District

In addition to its diverse collection of historic homes and businesses, Albany is also home to the oldest airport in the Northwest and one of the oldest in the world. First established in 1909, a few short years after the Wright Brothers' flight, the Albany Municipal Airport has been in continuous operation ever since. It's also the only airport in Oregon listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Stop by to see the historic airport, learn more about its stories, and see the classic A-4 Skyhawk fighter jet that's on display.

Ready to write the next chapter of your own history in Albany? Our team is here to help you find the perfect home. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Albany area.