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Salem, 
«SAY luhm» (pop. 136,924; met. area pop. 347,214), is the state capital and one of the largest cities of Oregon. The city lies in the Willamette Valley in northwestern Oregon.
Salem serves as an important commercial center for surrounding farm communities. About 60 state government agencies make up the largest source of employment in Salem. Other major employers include food processing businesses and retail services.
The city is the home of Willamette University and Corban College. Willamette University is the oldest university west of the Rocky Mountains. It was founded in 1842 as the Oregon Institute. Tourist attractions in Salem include a number of restored houses built in the 1800's. One of these is the Bush House, a mansion furnished with antiques. The Mission Mill Museum offers tours of four other restored houses.
Salem was founded in 1840 as a missionary settlement by Jason Lee, a Methodist missionary. Salem is the English version of Shalom, a Hebrew word meaning peace. In 1851, the community took the name Salem and became the state capital. It is the seat of Marion County and has a council-manager form of government.
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