Independence was known as the “Hop Capitol of the World” from the 1890s to the 1940s, but the history of our City is so much more than just hops.

Visit the Independence Heritage Museum and learn about our diverse history, Oregon Trail roots, the Kalapuya Tribe, hop farms, local military service, and much more!

The Museum is located in a historic building that has served many purposes over the years, originally housing the M & F Grocery Store which opened in the early 1940s and continued in that location until 1978. In the 1970s the store was managed by Robert Mason and his family until it closed. Following their departure the location became home to a series of thrift stores, antique stores, and miscellaneous stores. It was sold to the City of Independence in 2019 for use as the Independence Heritage Museum.