Robert Newell (portrayed by Al LePage) and his wife, Rebecca (portrayed by Bobbi Jo Weir) prepare to entertain guests for dinner and some lively 1850 political discussions in one of the Living History Programs often performed at Newell House.

Robert Newell's 200th Birthday Celebration
was a great success....read more here-

Robert and Rebecca Newell (portrayed by living history interpreters Al LePage and Bobbi Jo Weir) greet Representative Kim Thatcher to the Legislative Recetpion, March 30, 2007.

The Robert Newell House Museum hosted a Legislative Reception on March 30th in honor of the 200th anniversary of Robert Newell's birth.        Visitors enjoyed piano music by Sandra Kuziemski of Estacada and birthday cakes of the period provided by DAR members.       Distinguished guests included Oregon State Representative Kim Thatcher, Wilsonville Mayor Charlotte Lehan, Oregon State Society Daughters of the American Revolution State Regent Beverly Przbylski and Friends of Historic Champoeg President Greg Leo.

Robert and Rebecca Newell entertain guests with period birthday cakes.

           On Saturday, March 31st, the Robert Newell Museum was opened to the public with free admission to celebrate Robert Newell's birthday once again.   The day began with a dedication of the newly repaired and improved "Rebecca's Tea Porch" by State Regent Beverly Przybylski and Honorary State Regent Joan Hunter along with Rebecca Newell herself (portrayed by Bobbi Jo Weir).

         A Cake Baking Contest with both 19th century and  21st century cakes were judged  by the "people".  Awards were given and everyone enjoyed the delicious birthday cakes in honor of Robert Newell.

Rebecca Newell join OSSDAR Honorary State Regent Joan Hunter and State Regent Beverly Przbylski (left to right) in the ribbon cutting ceremoney for the dedication of the recently renovated activity porch.

Robert and Rebecca Newell enjoy guests, fiddler and dancing!

          Guests ended the day with a catered dinner and dancing on the newly renovated porch decking.   The events were sponsored by Sponsored by the Robert Newell House, Oregon State Society Daughters of the American Revoluntion and Friends of Historic Champoeg and were funded in part by    .

Living History Interpreters and Events

             Living History Events are great activities for the whole family to enjoy together.  Everyone can gain insights into early Oregon history while having fun as the pioneers might have. 

Check this year's Calendar as we start to pencil in the schedule for 2007!             
                                           

Field Trips and One-Room School Programs

          Newell House staff and volunteers offer an outstanding one-room school program tailored to students of any grade level, but especially suited for second through fifth grade. Costumed interpreters use authentic artifacts and hands-on activities in an interactive program and setting that is similar to what pioneer children might have experienced.  Newell House offers an excellent field trip opportunity for classrooms or home-schoolers that brings history alive and sparks students' curiosity to discover more. 

     Antique school bell from the
             Butteville School

The three-hours and 45 minute program is presented in three parts at three different locations.  Any of the three sections is also offered as a stand-alone program.
 

Students may want to bring their own "lunch pails" for a picnic on the grounds.

Contact Judy Van Atta at the Newell House email address for
scheduling, costs, and other information for your next field trip.
 

Group Tours and Programs   

       From early spring through the fall, Newell House welcomes pre-arranged group tours that can work with your schedule.  Staff and volunteers are very knowledgeable in Oregon and pioneer history so they are ready to answer your questions and explain why this place and these artifacts are so important to our history. 

       With the opening this spring of our new natural light-filled activity room overlooking the beautiful Champoeg Heritage Area you may want to consider Newell House as a regular place for your genealogy, quilting, textile, or other group to meet or hold activities

      Check with Judy Van Atta at Newell House to see how we can meet your needs and schedule.   

                                                                                                                                                                    Musicians, Michael Fahey and Sharon Donaldson
                                                                                  entertain at a recent gathering.

Wedding and Event Rentals

Newell House is available for a limited number of weddings and other private events.

Photo courtesy of "In Bloom Photography"

The long walkway from the school and jail house
buildings offers a dramatic bridal entrance.

        Built in 1852  and restored in the 1950’s by the Daughters of the American Revolution, the ground floor of this beautiful old farmhouse is decorated in the 1860’s style, filled with furnishings donated by Oregon pioneer families.  The second floor, once used for bedrooms for the Newell’s many children, is now a wonderful museum of artifacts including an outstanding exhibit of the gowns worn by wives of Oregon Governors dating to the mid 19^th century.

        The gardens surrounding the 1850’s home, which include a heritage rose garden and perennial beds, are edged by the Butteville Schoolhouse, Butteville Jail and a small orchard, providing a wonderful step back in time for a perfect wedding or reception.  The brick walkway provides a lovely setting for the bride’s walk down the aisle.  

Photos courtesy of "In Bloom Photography"

Small weddings inside the museum are available for up to 35 guests and weddings up to 50 guests are available in Rebecca's Tea Porch overlooking Champoeg State Heritage Area year around.

Weddings and receptions in the gardens are available for up to 150 guests.

 Price packages begin at $200. 

Contact Event Coordinator, Judy Van Atta, at Newell House
for scheduling information and further details.