Sellwood-Moreland is a neighborhood located in the southeastern part of Portland, Oregon. It’s known for its historic charm, vibrant community, and scenic views. This area is a fairly affluent neighborhood, which costs more than the average in Portland due to its picturesque location. All kinds of people live in Sellwood Moreland, from young couples to families and retirees.

In short, Sellwood Moreland would be recommended to almost anyone who can afford to live here as it has very few drawbacks and is in an excellent geographical location.

History:

Sellwood-Moreland’s history is deeply intertwined with the broader development of Portland. Originally, Sellwood was its own city, founded in 1882 and named after Reverend John Sellwood, who owned much of the land. It was annexed by Portland in 1893. The neighborhood’s early development was influenced by its proximity to the Willamette River and the establishment of streetcar lines, which made it an attractive residential suburb for those working in downtown Portland.

Looking at the streets of Sellwood-Moreland, you’ll notice a plethora of historic homes, many of which are Craftsman bungalows, Tudors, and Colonial Revivals. These homes, often over a century old, are a testament to the neighborhood’s rich architectural legacy and the preservation efforts of its residents.

You may think that some of these run-down homes would cost less money compared to the rest of Portland, but as Sellwood Moreland is so desireable this is not the case.

Sellwood Bridge:

The original Sellwood Bridge, built in 1925, was the only crossing over the Willamette River in the southern part of Portland. However, as the years went by, it became evident that the bridge was not up to modern safety and structural standards.

The decision to replace the bridge was made, and the new Sellwood Bridge opened in 2016. This new structure not only ensures safer vehicular travel but also includes wider paths for pedestrians and cyclists, emphasizing Portland’s commitment to multi-modal transportation.

The bridge’s construction and design also considered the environmental impact, with efforts made to minimize disturbances to the river and surrounding habitats.

Parks and Recreation:

Sellwood Park, one of the neighborhood’s primary recreational areas, spans 17 acres and offers a range of amenities. From a large off-leash dog area to basketball courts, a playground, and even a pool, it’s a hub of activity for residents of all ages.

Adjacent to Sellwood Park is the Oaks Amusement Park, a historic amusement park that has been in operation since 1905. It features classic rides, roller skating, and seasonal events.

The Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge, while not in Sellwood-Moreland proper, is just to the north and offers a serene escape from urban life. This 168-acre city park is a crucial habitat for many bird species and offers trails that meander through woodlands and wetlands.

Antique Row:

SE 13th Avenue, often referred to as “Antique Row,” is a testament to the neighborhood’s appreciation for history and nostalgia. With a concentration of antique shops, it’s a haven for collectors, interior designers, and anyone with an appreciation for vintage finds.

Beyond just antiques, the shops on this street often host events, sales, and other community gatherings, making it a lively and interactive shopping experience. The range of items available spans from furniture and home decor to vintage clothing and rare collectibles.

Dining and Entertainment:

Sellwood-Moreland’s dining scene is as diverse as its residents. Whether you’re in the mood for a cozy coffee shop, a gourmet pizza joint, sushi, or traditional Thai cuisine, the neighborhood has it all. Many of these establishments prioritize locally sourced ingredients, reflecting Portland’s broader food ethos.

The Moreland Theater is a cherished landmark in the community. This single-screen cinema, with its vintage charm, offers a mix of current releases and classic films. Its presence since 1926 makes it one of the oldest continuously operating theaters in Portland, and it provides a unique movie-going experience compared to modern multiplexes.

Community Events:

One of the standout events is the Sellwood-Moreland Monster March, a Halloween parade for kids. Families gather in costumes, and local businesses often participate, making it a festive and community-oriented event.

The summer concert series in Sellwood Park is another highlight. These concerts, often free to the public, feature a variety of musical acts and genres. Residents bring picnic blankets and enjoy music under the open sky, creating a relaxed and communal atmosphere.

Additionally, the neighborhood often hosts street fairs, farmers’ markets, and other seasonal events that emphasize local crafts, foods, and arts, further fostering a sense of community and local pride.

Transportation:

Sellwood-Moreland’s location in the southeastern part of Portland makes it a vital transit corridor. The Portland Streetcar’s A and B loops serve the neighborhood, providing residents easy access to other parts of the city, including downtown.

The introduction of the Orange Line of the MAX light rail in 2015 further enhanced the neighborhood’s connectivity. With stops in Sellwood-Moreland, residents and visitors can quickly travel to downtown Portland, Milwaukie, and other key destinations.

Additionally, the area is bike-friendly, with several dedicated bike lanes and paths. The Sellwood Bridge’s design, which accommodates pedestrians and cyclists, further emphasizes the city’s commitment to sustainable and multi-modal transportation.

Education:

Education is a cornerstone of the Sellwood-Moreland community. The neighborhood is home to several reputable educational institutions that cater to various age groups.

Sellwood Middle School is one of the primary educational institutions in the area, serving students in grades 6 through 8. Its curriculum emphasizes academic excellence, community involvement, and extracurricular activities.

Llewellyn Elementary School, another key institution, has a long-standing presence in the community, serving students from kindergarten through fifth grade. The school is known for its dedicated staff, active parent-teacher association, and a curriculum that balances academics with arts and physical education.

Beyond these, there are also private schools and preschools in the vicinity, offering families diverse educational choices.

Diverse Demographics:

Over the decades, Sellwood-Moreland has seen a dynamic mix of residents. From young professionals drawn to the area’s vibrancy and proximity to downtown, to families attracted by its schools and parks, to retirees who appreciate its peaceful streets and community events, the neighborhood caters to a wide demographic.

This diversity is reflected in the area’s businesses, events, and community initiatives. Whether it’s a yoga studio catering to the health-conscious, a vintage store attracting collectors, or a community garden bringing together green-thumbed residents, Sellwood-Moreland’s offerings are extremely varied.