America 250

As we commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence in 2026, this is a good time to reflect on the rule of law and the role of the judicial branch in our government and our communities.

Courts exist to serve people in our communities and to protect their rights and liberties. State courts, in particular, give people a way to be heard and to resolve disputes fairly and efficiently in matters that are often critical to their daily safety, security, and livelihood.

The resources on this site are meant to help you learn more about the history of the courts and the law, both here in Oregon and in our country as a whole. 

Chief Justice Meagan A. Flynn
Oregon Supreme Court

"We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness."  – U.S. Declaration of Independence, July 4, 1776

 Watch: Civics and the State Courts

 Free Supreme Court Building Tours in July

The Oregon Judicial Department invites the public to join a free tour of the historic Supreme Court building in downtown Salem every Tuesday throughout July. Tours will be held at noon on July 7, 14, 21, and 28 and last for one hour. No need to register — just show up!

Learn more about the building and tours

 Thoughts on America 250

Oregon judges and court staff offer their perspectives on what America 250 means to them.

 Legal History in Oregon

Meet some of the historical legal pioneers who made history while protecting people's rights and liberties and ensuring access to justice.

 Legal History at the Library of Congress

The Library of Congress houses numerous collections online to help you explore and learn about legal history in the United States, including:

• United States Reports: All decisions from the U.S. Supreme Court, searchable by authoring justice or major case topic.
  
• Documents from the Continental Congress and the Constitutional Convention: View original printed documents related to our country's founding, including the U.S. Constitution and Declaration of Independence.
  
• Lincoln and the Law: A collection of works related to President Abraham Lincoln's work as an Illionois lawyers and his balancing of civil liberties against the demands of war aims.
  
• Slavery and the Judiciary: Trials and cases, arguments, and court decisions relating to slavery, including materials associated with Dred Scott v. Sandford.