The historic community of Cornelius was originally established in 1842 and was incorporated as a town in 1893. Named after an early pioneer and hero of the Indian Wars, Colonel T. R. Cornelius, Cornelius has thrived over the years partly because of its resident’s independent pioneering spirit and partly because of the benefits of being located close to Oregon’s largest city, Portland. Downtown Portland is just a mere 25 miles west.

Located in northwestern Oregon’s Tualatin Valley near the rugged Pacific coastline, Cornelius is part of vibrant Washington County, and has a estimated population of 10,500 people. Sometimes referred to as “Oregon’s Family Town”, Cornelius is one of the premier locations to live in the “Beaver State” of Oregon.

Much of the environment and surrounding wilderness around Cornelius has remained unchanged since it was first settled, making it an excellent launching pad for outdoor recreational activities. The city maintains six spacious city parks and there are five outstanding golf courses in and just outside the city. Nearby Hagg Lake is a popular water hole ideal for fishing, sailing, and swimming.

Attractions close to city include Oregon’s impressive wine county; the Pacific coast with its pristine white sand beaches is a 30 minute drive westward; the imposing rock formations and waterfalls of Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area is an hour eastward; and a hike up Oregon’s largest mountain, Mount Hood.