Mount Angel, OR

Mount Angel, Oregon is a small city located in Marion County. It was first settled by German pioneers in the mid-19th century, with the establishment of a farming community called "St. Benedict" in 1867. The missionaries who settled in this area were members of the Benedictine Order from the Mount Angel Abbey in Switzerland.

The town's name, originally "Molalla Prairie," was changed to "Engelberg" after the founder of the Benedictine Order, St. Engelbert, in 1873. However, due to the anti-German sentiment during World War I, the name was then changed to "Mount Angel" in 1918.

The Benedictine monks played a significant role in the development of the town. They established Mount Angel Abbey in 1882, which still stands today as a prominent landmark. The abbey served as a center for religious and educational activities for the community.

In the early years, Mount Angel relied heavily on agriculture, with fruit orchards, hops, and dairy farms being the main sources of income. The town grew slowly but steadily, and by the mid-20th century, it had become a thriving community.

In 1969, Mount Angel gained city status, and over time, it developed a strong focus on preserving its German heritage. The Oktoberfest, one of the biggest festivals in the Pacific Northwest, began in 1966 and continues to attract visitors to Mount Angel every year. This festival celebrates the town's German roots with traditional food, music, dancing, and other cultural activities.

Today, Mount Angel is known for its picturesque charm, with its well-preserved historic buildings and small-town feel. The Benedictine influence is still evident, not only through the abbey but also in the local schools, where education remains an essential aspect of the community.

Despite its small size, Mount Angel continues to grow and adapt to the changing times while maintaining its strong connection to its German heritage and its rich history as a settlement for Benedictine missionaries.

Mount Angel Abbey

A beautiful and serene Benedictine Monastery offering guided tours, a bookstore, a museum, and a stunning church.

Oktoberfest

A not-to-be-missed annual festival held in September, featuring traditional German music, food, beer, and dancing.

Glockenspiel

A unique tower with a mechanical clock and animated figures that come to life several times a day, depicting scenes from Mount Angel's history.

Mount Angel Historical Society Museum

Showcasing the history of the town and surrounding area, including Native American artifacts, early settlers' tools, and photographs.

Mount Angel Festhalle

A versatile event center hosting concerts, dances, weddings, and other community events throughout the year.

John F. Kennedy High School

A picturesque Catholic high school known for its stunning architecture and beautiful campus.

Mount Angel Public Library

A small but cozy library offering a wide range of books, computers, and community programs.

Mount Angel Svaty Kopecek Pilgrimage

A spiritual journey up a hill with fourteen Stations of the Cross, leading to a beautiful chapel at the summit.

Snacks by the Tracks

A popular local food cart pod, offering a variety of delicious cuisines and a vibrant outdoor dining experience.

Wilco Family Farm Store

A charming farm store providing agricultural supplies, gardening essentials, pet food, and often hosting family-friendly activities.

Mount Angel, Oregon has a temperate maritime climate. It experiences mild and wet winters, and warm and dry summers. The area is located in the Willamette Valley, which is known for its mild temperatures and relatively high rainfall compared to other parts of Oregon.

Winter temperatures in Mount Angel range from highs in the 40s to lows in the 30s Fahrenheit (4 to -1 degree Celsius). This season typically sees frequent rainfall, occasionally accompanied by snowfall. However, snowfall is generally light and does not accumulate much on the ground.

Summer temperatures in Mount Angel range from highs in the 70s to 80s Fahrenheit (21 to 32 degrees Celsius). This season is generally dry, with very little rainfall. The area benefits from longer daylight hours during the summer months, providing ample opportunity for outdoor activities.

Spring and fall in Mount Angel are transitional seasons, with temperatures gradually warming up or cooling down. Spring is typically characterized by increasing rainfall, while fall tends to be drier and cooler as the region transitions into winter.

Overall, Mount Angel enjoys a pleasant and moderate climate throughout the year, with relatively mild temperatures and ample rainfall.

Mount Angel, located in Marion County, Oregon, is a small city with several distinct neighborhoods. Here are a few of them:

Downtown

The heart of Mount Angel, the downtown area is known for its charming small-town atmosphere. It features a mix of historic buildings, local shops, restaurants, and community events. The downtown area is also home to the famous Mount Angel Abbey and Seminary.

Benedictine

This neighborhood is named after the Benedictine monks who founded Mount Angel Abbey. It surrounds the abbey and seminary and consists mainly of monastic buildings, pastoral lands, and natural beauty. It offers a peaceful and serene atmosphere.

Academy

Located near the Benedictine neighborhood, the Academy area is primarily made up of Mount Angel Abbey's educational institutions, including Mount Angel Seminary and Mount Angel Abbey Library. It attracts students and scholars from around the world, giving the neighborhood a lively academic vibe.

Pioneer

Situated on the southeastern edge of Mount Angel, the Pioneer neighborhood is a residential area with a mix of older and newer homes. It offers a quiet and family-friendly environment, with various parks and recreational areas nearby.

Wilco

Named after the Wilco Farmers Cooperative, this neighborhood is in the northern part of Mount Angel. It consists of a mix of residential areas and agricultural lands. Being close to the town's main shopping areas, Wilco provides convenient access to amenities.

Silverton Road

This neighborhood is located along the highway that connects Mount Angel to the neighboring city of Silverton. This area primarily comprises commercial establishments, restaurants, and professional services. It offers a convenient location for residents looking for easy access to nearby cities and amenities.

Each of these neighborhoods contributes to Mount Angel's overall character, with its strong sense of community, cultural heritage, and beautiful surroundings. Whether you prefer a bustling downtown atmosphere, academically-oriented surroundings, or a peaceful residential area, Mount Angel has something to offer.