Cornelius, Oregon

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Cornelius, Oregon is a small city in Washington County, part of the Portland metro area. It sits on the TV Highway between Forest Grove and Hillsboro. The 2020 population was about 12,700.

History
The area started as Free Orchards. In 1845, Benjamin Cornelius and his family settled there. In 1871, his son Thomas R. Cornelius moved to the area, built a house, a store, and a warehouse near the railroad, and helped establish a creamery and two sawmills. He also helped build the first school and the Methodist Church. In 1893, Free Orchards was renamed Cornelius to honor him. The town grew as farming and lumber supported the community. The Cornelius Public Library opened in 1912.

Geography
The city covers about 2 square miles of land.

Government
Cornelius uses a council-manager form of government. The mayor is Jeffrey C. Dalin. Police services are provided by the Washington County Sheriff’s Office.

Transportation
TriMet bus line 57 serves Cornelius, linking it with Forest Grove, Hillsboro, Beaverton, and the Portland area, including a connection to MAX in Hillsboro.

Education
The area is served by nearby Forest Grove and Hillsboro school districts.