The early Years – 1950’s
Oregon Soap Box Derby began way back in 1951 (under the name Salem Soap Box Derby) with the construction of the racetrack in Bush Park and held the inaugural Local Championship Race in the summer of 1952. This long history and many years of tradition mark Salem as unique in the Northwest. Much has changed since then but all these years later the tradition of teaching strong values, competition, and fun through Derby remain at the forefront. We hope you will enjoy this glimpse into our past even as we are looking toward the future.
Salem Statesman Journal newspaper article
Read about how the track was built and the first championship race in 1952
Late 1950’s, pre-race parade of all racers up to the top of the hill. At that time only boys 10 to 16 years of age were allowed to race.
1952- Salem’s First Local Championship Race, Final heat brothers Dan Adams in Lane 1 (left) vs Doug Adams in lane 2, (right).
Late 1950’s, view of the track from top side.
1959 Championship heat, Class A Champion Bob Cummins (center lane) defeats Class B Champion Robie Norton in Lane 1 (left).
1952- Salem’s First Local Champ Doug Adams with runner up Dan Adams.
1952- Salem’s First Champion, Doug Adams, on his Champ’s Parade.
Race Day crowd at Finish Line, late 1950’s Flag Man is Doug Adams, Salem’s 1st Champion.
1959- Salem’s City Champs, (left) Class B Champ Don Brimin and (Right) Class A and City Champ, Bob Cummins.
1979 Newspaper article
