According to the Marion County Assessor’s Office, this house was built in 1904.  From 1909 -1911 it was occupied by carpenter Ralph R. Jones who was partner in the firm Mollencop & Jones — building contractors.  Henry L. Briggs purchased the property in June 1911 (Marion County Deed Book 118, page 79).  Mr. Briggs is listed as a fruit dealer in Salem City Directories and lived in the house with his wife Jennie and children until 1930 when the house was sold to Russell and Valerie Bonesteele. Mr. Bonesteele was associated with other members of his family in the car business. He also served on the Salem Hospital Board and other community boards including the Salem City Council and was elected Mayor of Salem in 1959.
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