Don and Shellee Ross are the proud new proprietors of a very old Salem institution. Century House, at 1171 E. State Street, was founded in 1888 as The Home for Aged Women. The home has been a haven for older Salem women seeking independent assisted living in a non-institutional family environment. Don and Shellee are are now in the midst of a major remodeling and rejuvenation for reuse of this home that is familiar to all Salem area residents who travel along East State.

Always interested in preserving Salem’s buildings, landmarks and historically significant sites, Salem Preservation contacted the Ross’s to ask if they could see what was happening at the House.

Mr. & Mrs. Ross quickly responded by asking the group to participate in a tour of the facility. They said renovations are moving along quickly, so the tour should be scheduled so people on the tour would be able to see many of the changes that are taking place. Tour participants will get a good before and after understanding of the changes that are taking place.

It was decided that the tour of the Century House will be held this coming Saturday at 1 p.m. All Salem Preservation members and guests are welcome to attend. Any Salem area residents who have an interest in preservation or want to know more about Century House are also welcome. However, non-Salem Preservation members are requested to make a reservation for this event. To make a reservation call 330-337-6829. Leave your name, phone number and how many attending.