Township Maps of Oregon Collection, 1858-1916

Land (cadastral) surveys accomplished under the U.S. Government's Rectangular Survey System are the basis for the establishment of land titles and boundaries within Oregon. The initial point for the land surveys in Oregon is referred to as the Willamette Stone, and the principle survey meridian is named the Willamette Meridian. The Willamette Meridian was established June 4th, 1851 and runs north and south between the Washington-Canada border and the Oregon-California border. The initial point from which the Meridian extends is located in Willamette Stone State Park. The meridian is used to describe all property areas in both Washington and Oregon, while townships rely on the Meridian as a reference point. The General Land Office conducted surveys in southern Oregon to determine property locations. Townships were used as reference points to these defined locations. Meridian and base lines serve as the principal axis of township and range system.