The History of The Gray Building

Opened in 1891, The Gray Building first served as the home of Gray Bros. hardware store and has since been a cornerstone of Downtown Salem, strategically located at the intersection of State and Liberty Streets. This architectural gem has witnessed the transformation of Salem, playing host to a myriad of entities such as the city government, a justice court, a district court, the YMCA, a dentist office, the Chamber of Commerce, a restaurant and bar, amongst others, reflecting its adaptability and the diverse needs of the community over its illustrious 120-year history.

In 2018, The Gray Building underwent extensive renovations to modernize its amenities while preserving its historic charm, ensuring it continues to serve Salem’s downtown community in the best way possible. The renovation breathed new life into the structure, creating an environment that fosters growth, innovation, and a sense of community for a variety of businesses.

The original construction of The Gray Building in 1891 was pivotal in shifting the commercial focus of Salem away from Commercial Street, influencing the architectural landscape of the city. For the ensuing 40 years, most of the new commercial developments emerged as neighbors to The Gray Building, lining up and down Commercial Street. This monumental building not only encouraged the commercial expansion of Salem but also symbolizes the relentless spirit and evolving journey of the city and its people.