Cornelius is a city located in Washington County, Oregon, United States. It was founded in 1847 by Thomas R. Cornelius, who settled in the area and established a farm. The city was officially incorporated in 1893. Cornelius has a rich history of agriculture, with its economy being heavily reliant on farming for many years.
One of the notable residents of Cornelius is former Oregon Governor and U.S. Senator Mark Hatfield. He lived in the city for many years and was known for his political career.
The population of Cornelius has been steadily growing over the years, with a current population of around 12,000 residents. The city has seen an increase in diversity, with a growing Hispanic population in recent years.
Cornelius is located in the Tualatin Valley, surrounded by farmland and rolling hills. The city is situated about 25 miles west of Portland and is part of the Portland metropolitan area.
The economy of Cornelius is primarily based on agriculture, with a focus on farming and food processing. The city is also home to a growing number of high-tech companies, contributing to its reputation as the "Heart of Oregon's Silicon Forest."
Cornelius has a rich cultural heritage, with a diverse population that includes a significant Hispanic community. The city celebrates its culture through events like the Cornelius Heritage Day festival and the annual Cinco de Mayo celebration.