1
2
3
4
5
The Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary have a history in Oregon that extends back to 1859, when they made a long voyage via train and steamships from Quebec to the shores of the Willamette River. After establishing a mission in the new city of Portland, this fascinating and intrepid group of women went on to found missions and schools across the region that are still in operation today.
Their long history in Oregon has generated a considerable trove of records and artifacts. Merryman Barnes Architects worked with the Sisters of the Holy Names to design an archive building to preserve these materials. Sited on the grounds of Marylhurst University, now a part of the Mary’s Woods retirement community, the Heritage Center was situated next to their original Provincial House and took references from that building’s classical form. This project also includes a beautiful garden designed by Mayer Reed.