Once Upon a Time

Did you know that, once upon a time, Asahel Bush II raised prizewinning cattle in the pasture beside his home? Here's the proof:


Aren't you glad you don't have to dodge the cows when you park your car in the parking lot on Mission Street?

Sally Bush: Woman Ending Hunger

On October 29, the Bush House Museum celebrates the 150th birthday of Sally Bush. The second daughter of Asahel Bush II, Miss Sally returned to Salem after completing her education and lived in the family home on Mission Street for the rest of her life. She is remembered for her appreciation of gardens and her devotion to animals, especially her beloved cats.

Miss Sally was a kind, generous, and compassionate woman, always prepared to assist families in need of food or clothing. In her honor, the Museum is planning the 2nd Annual Sally Bush Memorial Food Drive in partnership with Marion-Polk Food Share's Women Ending Hunger campaign.

On Friday, October 29, admission to the Bush House Museum is FREE with a donation of canned or packaged food. The Museum and the Bush Barn Art Center will continue to accept food donations through Sunday, November 7.

Although many of these items weren't available to Miss Sally, we encourage you to consider this list of the "10 Most Wanted" foods when making your donation:

Canned soup
Canned chili
Boxed macaroni and cheese
Breakfast cereal
Peanut butter
Canned tuna
Canned fruit
Canned vegetables
Pasta
Pasta sauce

Even if you don't plan to tour the Museum, please consider making a donation to help the hungry in our community, in the spirit of Miss Sally Bush.