In 2012 the Booth Kelly Mill site was the focus of a two-term architecture studio through the University of Oregon’s Sustainable City Year Program (SCYP). Students were asked to turn the parcel into a project that would provide living-wage jobs and restore the environment of what used to be a thriving lumber mill.

The 3.5 mile long canal was hand excavated by Elias Briggs, the founder of Springfield. With his son Isaac’s help, he dug the canal in 1852, using an ox-plow and shovels in order to provide power for the first grist and saw mills in the area.

This is a really neat document that gives an in-depth account of Springfield's history and context.  Highlights include the homemade raft that served as a Ferry across the Willamette, Springfield's distinction as "the only 'wet spot; between Salem and Oakland" during Prohibition, the influence of road and railway development, and the history of the millrace and timber industry in the area.