Gill, J. K., Building - Salem, Oregon - U.S. National Register of Historic Places on Waymarking.com

This Italianate-style structure, built in 1868, is one of the oldest buildings in Salem's historic commercial district, one of the few that remain from prior to 1870. The building shares a staircase with the adjoining Adolph Block, also on the National Register.

J.K. Gill, who had married Frances Willson, daughter of Salem founder William H. Willson, acquired a book business from his mother-in-law in 1868 and moved it into this new, brick building. Shortly after, Gill moved the business to Portland. While Gill died in 1931, his business lived on, expanding to include 63 stores in Oregon, Washington, California and Ohio, eventually focusing on office supplies. the chain closed in 1999 due to competition from larger, national chains.

Until recently, this building served as home to "Pete's Place," a dive bar. That business closed in August 2012 and the structure now displays "For Lease" signs.

Street address: 356 State Street Salem, OR USA 97301 County / Borough / Parish: Marion Year listed: 1980 Historic (Areas of) Significance: Event, Architecture/Engineering Periods of significance: 1850-1874 Historic function: Commerce/Trade Current function: Commerce/Trade Privately owned?: yes Primary Web Site: [Web Link] Secondary Website 1: [Web Link] Season start / Season finish: Not listed Hours of operation: Not listed Secondary Website 2: Not listed National Historic Landmark Link: Not listed

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