jeanfarrell

In 1985 Jean and Dorothy Farrell purchased the
Shaniko Hotel property, moved there and began the
three year project of restoring the historic building.
Jean had been a successful plumbing contractor in
Salem but at age 63, he gave this up to pursue the
dream of restoring an interesting bit of history. The
hotel had not been fit for habitation since it was sold at
auction in 1977. The roof leaked, the ground floor
had rotted and the woodwork including the staircase
had six or more coats of paint. The town lacked
sewer service but a usable water system was nearing
completion. With the help of Farrell family members,
resident townspeople and a small amount of work
contracted from the outside, plus lots of hard cash for
materials and equipment, they achieved their
restoration goals.

Built a set of public restrooms next door to the old city
hall. Spearheaded the restoration of the Shaniko
Schoolhouse. Built an RV park complete with bath
house and hook ups. Built a frontier style building to
house an ice cream parlor plus additional retail space.
Secured funding for paving the downtown area.
Seemingly tireless in work on special events staging.

Served as Shaniko Mayor for ten years. Saw to it that
the old two story city hall had a new roof. Moved a
former garage building across the street where it now
houses the town's fire engine. Provided employment
for many townspeople over the past fourteen years.

As Jean Farrell approached his 78th year,
both he and Dorothy were experiencing
health problems. They reluctantly had listed
the hotel and RV park for sale. It sold in July
of 2000. The couple are spending more time
with family and plan to sell their home in
Shaniko and divide their time between
Salem and Hawaii.