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The Sparkman Team
Salem is the capital city of Oregon, and the county seat of Marion County. Salem is nestled into the center of the Willamette Valley right beside the Willamette River which runs North through the City. The Willamette Valley is the boundary between Marion and Polk Counties. Salem was founded in 1842 and became the capital of the Oregon territory in 1851, and was incorporated in 1857. Salem had an estimated population of 155,469 as of July 1, 2009 which made it the third largest city in the state. From Salem you are able to drive north on I-5 to Portland within one hour. South of Salem you are able to drive to Eugene in about an hour as well.