Friday, August 07, 2026

History In Walla Walla

The building in the foreground is empty these days, but once house a financial powerhouse.
Sherwood and Roberts, which some real estate, lending, and insurance, began in Walla Walla in 1932. It would operate until 1995, expanding, eventually across 9 Western states.
To the left, is Walla Walla's historic post office, still in great condition, at least, on the outside.
Buildings were across from the Marcus Whitman, where we stayed.

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

Great post Mike. Donald Sherwood and Austin Roberts built a highly successful financial services "super market" from the ground up during a challenging economic era. The partners demonstrated remarkable resilience during World War II, keeping the business thriving despite Donald’s military service. Their growth from a local office on 2nd Avenue to an influential Pacific Northwest institution put Walla Walla on the regional business map. The historic Sherwood & Roberts office building on 2nd Avenue stands as a physical monument to their mid-century growth. Donald Sherwood played a pivotal role in securing land options and logistics that brought major employers, like the Wallula Boise Cascade plant, to the region. : Donald and Virginia Sherwood’s financial and personal dedication to Whitman College historically matched or exceeded any individual donors. They viewed education as a vital, constructive investment in the future that would outlast physical buildings. Donald’s financial guidance as a trustee was credited with saving the college from debt during critical periods. The Sherwood Trust, established by the family in 1991, continues to empower local nonprofits by fostering human connections.