Early in 1949 a group of sub-contractors decided to try to put an Exchange together. At that time, some of the contractors were getting plans from the Architects, but others were finding it impossible to get plans. Using the Portland Exchange as an example, the group organized the Salem Contractors Exchange. The first meeting was held August 25, 1949. About thirty people were present. The first officers were President, Don Patton; Treasurer, Louis Neuman; and Secretary, Stan Hammer with Board Members C.A. Lantz, Charles Shaw, Charles Norton, Bill Lewis, Emil Otjen, Fred Snider, Gordon Carl, Roy Harlen, VernSalter, and W.B. Stone. The membership dues were set at $3.00 per month for out of town members and $4.00 per month for local members. It was decided to include General Contractors in the association to promote “better unity in the Industry”.

 

The first Banquet Committee met February 1950. “It was decided unanimously that no liquor be served at the Banquet, there would be no women, and it was to be no typical stag affair.” The cost of the ticket was $3.50. The purpose of the Banquet was to bring greater unity among the group and to meet the key persons in the industry. Beginning in 1956, the Architects presented awards to Outstanding Craftsmen of the year for Concealed and Exposed work.    It was always a delight for the company whose employee received the award. Some of the first Architects to participate in the program were Lyle Bartholomew, William Williams, Jim Payne, Don Richardson, Ben Cave, Larry Hite, and Warren Carkin.  

 

The first Exchange building was established at 335 Bush St. S.E. Aureta Smith was hired as the Secretary. In 1954 the Exchange was moved to Broadway and Hood St. in the Capital Press Building. In the early 1960’s the building at 565 Hood St. S.E. was available and with the help of Batterman Construction and others who donated labor, the Exchange was moved to that location. After ten years of planning, the impossible dream came true in 1975 when property was purchased and a new building was constructed under the leadership of Al Jensen, Dick Rudie, Mac Stuart, Dale Peterson, Dave Lantz, Dale Pence, Wayne Warren, Pat Valentino, John Riches, Les Purcell, Don Wiles, Orville Parkin, Dan Voight, Roger Cummings,and Robert Miller. Phyllis Shaw,who had been the Exchange Office Manager since 1965, helped design the building; plans were drawn up by Carl Williams, of Payne, Settecase, Smith; John Richesof Riches Electric engineered the Electrical: and Wes Gladowof Salem Heating designed the Heating & Ventilating. Through the joint effort by many of the members of the Exchange in donating labor and materials, the new building was erected in record time and was free and clear of debt within a few years.