Gatke Hall

Gatke Hall is a two-story building with sandstone exterior walls constructed using a combination of brick and steel framing techniques. The interior houses specialized exercise science laboratories, faculty research offices, and information technology department workspaces.

Built as Salem's post office in 1903, the entire structure was moved on rollers to the Willamette campus in 1938 over a six-month period. From 1939 to 1967 it housed the law school, marked by the installation of a Lady Justice statue from the county courthouse in 1952.

The building serves as a working laboratory space for students and faculty pursuing exercise science research. Its function shapes daily campus life and connects visitors to active learning happening within its walls.

The building is generally accessible when visiting campus, though interior access may be limited without university affiliation. Plan your visit during regular campus hours and check with the main office if you wish to explore the interior spaces.

The sandstone and granite used for the exterior walls came from Ashland, Oregon, while bricks and wood were sourced from local Salem suppliers. This combination of distant and local building materials reflects the distinctive nature of a structure that was relocated rather than built on site.

Location: Salem

Inception: 1903

Architects: James Knox Taylor

GPS coordinates: 44.93700,-123.02800

Latest update: December 14, 2025 17:00