It is said that Brightwood was named by a Mr. Alcorn, a property owner, because of the pleasing effect of the sun shining on the cottonwood trees in the spring. The first local post office was called Salmon, because it was very close to the Salmon River. The Salmon post office was established in 1891, with Winnie McIntyre the first postmaster. The name of the post office was changed to Brightwood in 1910.

Photo: Bill White, Brightwood, Or.

Photo: Bill White, Brightwood, Or.

Photo: Bill White, Brightwood, Or.
Brightwood Store 1907

Photo: Bill White, Brightwood, Or.
Brightwood School 1920

Photo: Bill White, Brightwood, Or.
Brightwood Post Office 1947

Photo: Bill White, Brightwood, Or.

Photo: Bill White, Brightwood, Or.
Brightwood Tavern