Hazel Patton is one of Salem’s greatest champions. Because of her unpretentious nature, you may not have heard of her, but she has played an integral role in making Salem the vibrant, growing community it is today. She has helped ensure our city preserves its history while flourishing and innovating into the future.
Hazel moved to Salem from Detroit, Michigan with her husband and five sons in 1971, and put her degree in Bacteriology and Public Health to work as a registered Medical Technologist. She soon became involved with nonprofits when she created Volunteers for Nursing Homes, and later opened and operated the first adult daycare center in the mid-valley. This is how she discovered her talents shone brightest in starting or founding organizations. Some of Hazel’s most prominent projects have been: Walton Guest House, STAGE (formed to save and restore the Elsinore Theatre), Court/Chemeketa Historic Renewal, Movies in the Park, Salem Main Street Association, Oregon State Hospital National Register Team and the Oregon State Hospital Museum, but the one closest to her heart is Salem’s Riverfront Carousel, which she referred to as “a city landmark and treasure.”
As the carousel celebrates its 22nd year, the landmark has been rechristened the ‘Hazel Patton Riverfront Carousel.’ For years, Hazel resisted having her name added to the moving artwork that she helped create but with coaxing from friends she finally agreed to accept the honor. She also agreed to sit down with us and reflect on her adopted hometown. Let’s stop and find out what one of Salem’s treasures has to share!
What is your favorite thing about Salem?
The word “thing” throws me but I am going to go ahead and say the people of Salem who are so generous with their time and talent…lovely dedicated folks.
What is your favorite thing to do in Salem?
Walk in neighborhoods and parks with my friends and my dog.
What is one of your favorite childhood memories?
Spending our Summers at the beach in Washington State.
If you could choose the next carousel animal what would it be and what would it be named? Why?
A cougar named Butch. I am a graduate of Washington State University.
What is your worst habit?
Mentally taking charge of projects or events that are not mine.
If you could meet your 20-year-old self, what advice would you give her?
Relax more…..let the dust settle and the dishes sit in the sink.
Where were you happiest?
I have way too many “happiest places” to mention.
What song hits you with a wave of nostalgia every time you hear it?
Taps
What is your most treasured possession?
If there were a fire and I had to grab just one thing, it would be my dog, Sadie.
New Movie or an old favorite?
Can’t beat “It’s A Wonderful Life.” I watch it every year.
Polka dots or stripes?
Neither
Coffee or Tea?
Coffee
Early to rise or late to bed?
The latter
Roses or tulips?
Roses…they smell good.