Exploring the Oswego Furnace & Salamanders in Lake Oswego, Oregon

Simba 🐾 and I stepped back in time at the Oswego Furnace, tucked inside George Rogers Park along the Willamette River. This towering stone furnace dates back to the 1860s, when Oregon was finding its footing in the iron industry. Today, it’s preserved as a striking reminder of Lake Oswego’s industrial beginnings—and paired with a touch of whimsy thanks to the nearby Salamander statues that celebrate the town’s heritage through art.

📍 Highlights from Our Visit

🏭 Walking through George Rogers Park to the historic iron furnace from the 1860s
📖 Learning about Oregon’s early industrial history and Lake Oswego’s role in it
🦎 Admiring the playful salamander sculptures, symbols of resilience and rebirth
🐾 Enjoying a dog-friendly stroll with Simba along the riverside trails
🌊 Relaxing by the Willamette River with scenic views and peaceful vibes

The Oswego Furnace: A Glimpse into Oregon’s Past

Built in 1867, the Oswego Iron Furnace was the first iron furnace on the West Coast and played a key role in shaping Lake Oswego’s early development. Though operations ceased in the late 1800s, the stone structure still stands tall—an impressive relic of Oregon’s industrial era and a rare piece of history preserved for future generations. Interpretive signs around the site share stories of the workers, the community, and the challenges of producing iron in the Pacific Northwest.

Salamanders: Art with Local Meaning

Just steps away, you’ll find whimsical salamander sculptures designed to honor Lake Oswego’s connection to the iron industry. Why salamanders? In folklore, these creatures were thought to be born of fire and able to survive flames—perfect symbols for a town built on molten iron. Their playful design adds an artistic, modern twist to the historic setting, making this stop both educational and fun.

A Scenic, Dog-Friendly Stop

George Rogers Park itself is a lovely destination. With open green spaces, shady trails, and river views, it’s an ideal place for a leisurely walk with your pup. Simba loved exploring the pathways while I soaked in the mix of history, art, and nature all around us.

Why You Should Visit

The Oswego Furnace & Salamanders is the perfect stop if you enjoy:

🏛️ Local history brought to life through preserved landmarks
🎨 Quirky public art with deeper cultural meaning
🐕 Dog-friendly spaces with trails and open park areas
🌊 Scenic riverside walks that feel both peaceful and inspiring

It’s a hidden gem that blends heritage with creativity—something Lake Oswego does beautifully.

🎥 Watch the Video

Join Simba and me as we explore the Oswego Furnace & Salamanders—from historic ruins to playful sculptures. It’s the kind of stop that reminds you travel is about discovery, both big and small.

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