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One of Salem’s largest downtown fires gutted the Guardian
Building on the morning of November 3, 1947. Built at the
turn of the century, the five-story building at the corner
of State and Liberty Streets (location of Anita Store at a
later date) was one of Salem’s largest office buildings,
home to approximately thirty business, including two medical
clinics, several dentists and attorneys, a medical laboratory,
pharmacy and savings and loan, among others. Total damages
to the business was estimated at $500,000.
The fire started in a light well shaft and quickly spread
to the rest of the building. Discovered by a janitor at about
7 a.m., the blaze was brought under control at 11 a.m. By
the time firemen arrived, smoke in the building was so thick
that even with masks, they had trouble seeing. A second alarm
brought out all available equipment from Salem’s central
fire station, including five pumpers and a ladder truck. In
all, 45 firemen fought the blaze. Three suffered injuries,
none serious.
The building itself was valued at $200,000, and the owners
determined to rebuild as quickly as possible.
About the Image: A fire escape is located at the front of
the structure. At the front of the building smoke is rising
from the fourth story of the five-story cement or brick building.
A dark cloud of smoke has gathered over the building. A few
bystanders are gathered watching the fire. Cars are still
parked along the curb in front of neighboring businesses.
These businesses include Grabenhorst Bros. Realtors, The Pike
Ice cream shop, the Bible Book House, a plumbing business
and a café. Two men are on the roof of the ice cream
shop.
Compiled and written by Kathleen Carlson Clements
Bibliography:
Oregon Statesman, November 4, 1947.
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