Founded in 1957, the Yamhill County Historical Society is a 501(c)(3), not-for-profit educational and public service organization engaged to protect, preserve and share the history and heritage of Yamhill County. An exceptional group of quilts and other textiles dating from the 1850s through the twentieth century, and a beautiful assortment of Native American baskets and tools are among the more than 15,000 items found in the Permanent Collection. The Society owns many antique tractors and unique farming artifacts. The Research Library contains photos, genealogical and archival materials, and books on local history.
The Yamhill County Historical Society started with an antique church and log cabin in Lafayette as its museum and research library, and now owns the Yamhill Valley Heritage Center located at 11275 SW Durham Ln., McMinnville, Oregon. The 17-acre complex includes a 40,000 sf museum showcasing agricultural history, an original 1880’s one-room schoolhouse, working blacksmith and sawmill operations, logging and dairy displays, and displays of many artifacts from the 1800s and early 1900s. Construction continues at this site as we gradually unfold a vision of a pioneer village. Rental spaces are also available for rent at the Heritage Center.
