Welcome to Hillsboro’s newest monument, dedicated November 30, 2023.
This monument honors the memory of the Methodist Meeting House and the children of Virginia and Joseph Meek. The Oregon State Historic Preservation department has called it one of the most important sites in Oregon. Although the exact location of the Methodist Meeting House and burial ground have been lost to time, they have not been lost to memory.
The Monument was erected as a testament to the Nez Perce people (who have been a part of Oregon's history for centuries), the Meek family's loss, and the vital role the Methodist Meeting House played in Oregon's history.
First constructed in 1844 by the Reverend Joseph Hosgry, the Methodist Meeting House resembled an early day church. The building had a belfry, but no bell, as it is said that the church members could not afford to buy a bell.
The church was built on Richard Constable Farm, where outdoor sermons had previously been held. The Meeting House was also used by other denominations and acted as a court during periods of Territorial and Provisional government.
Adjacent to the Meeting House was a small burial ground where five of Virginia (of the Nez Perce Tribe) and Joseph Meek’s children were buried. The monument’s five basalt pillars represent these children. Each child's name is etched onto one of the pillars.
The monument also includes five plaques, attached to the sanded concrete wall behind the pillars, that collectively tell the story of the area.
This Methodist Meeting House Monument was created so that this place and those lives will be remembered.