Shemanski Plaza S Park Blocks

Shemanski Plaza sits within Portland's South Park Blocks, a 12-block greenspace running from Salmon to Jackson Street in the city's Cultural District. The plaza is anchored by the Shemanski Fountain, a triangular structure of cast Oregon sandstone designed by architect Carl L. Linde and given to the city in 1926 by Joseph Shemanski, a Polish immigrant businessman who founded the Eastern Outfitting Co. The fountain is completed by a bronze statue, "Rebecca at the Well," created by Oliver Laurence Barrett. The South Park Blocks, including Shemanski Plaza, are listed on the National Register of Historic Places and feature paved paths, public art, and shaded lawn areas beneath a canopy of trees. The plaza regularly hosts the Shemanski Park Farmers Market, drawing more than 30 vendor booths of farm-fresh and locally made goods. As part of Portland Parks & Recreation's citywide system, the plaza can be reserved for weddings, picnics, and other gatherings through the city's park permit process.