Sunday, December 28, 2014

Historic Downtown Salem #1: Burke Block

267 Commercial Street SE

IMG_3528 Burke Block in Salem, Oregon on September 9, 2006
Burke Block on September 9, 2006.

This building is known as the Burke Block. It is technically outside of the boundaries of the Historic District by about a block but it was built in 1890 as a fruit and produce house. In 1895, the Illahee Club was organized as a recreational club that occupied the second floor of the Burke Block. In 1912, the Illahee Club merged with the Board of Trade, and in 1922 the Board of Trade became the first Salem Chamber of Commerce.

IMG_3525 Burke Block in Salem, Oregon on September 9, 2006
Burke Block on September 9, 2006.

In 1927 the Salem Laundry Company occupied part of the Burke Block, and in the 1930s Hain’s Top and Body Shop was located here. Later the Table Supply grocery store and the A. R. McDonald meat market occupied the first floor with apartments on the second floor. The Burke Block is currently is home to a liquor store and a dance school.

IMG_3524 Burke Block in Salem, Oregon on September 9, 2006
Burke Block on September 9, 2006.

Additional Links:
Burke Block at Discover-Neighborhood-History

Continue to 2: Umpqua Bank (Site of the Nesmith Building)

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