Dow Reports Shrinkage of Building Dollar

According to figures released by the Dor,v Service, Inc., based on their reports from 150 American cities, building costs have increased 5 per cent since last March. Of that increase $485 went for higher labor costs, and $121 for materials. This was a reversal of the overall figures since 1941. Over the longer period the Dow experts reported the cost rise divided as follows : Materials, $4308; labor, $2424.

The California Lumber Merchant thinks these figures easy to explain. In 1941 building labor was getting excellent wages, based on economic conditions at that time, while the price of most materials rvas only creeping up from the low levels of pre-war days. For the next several years materials showed continual increase in price levels until they reached their present altitude. Since last l\4arch material prices have increased very little as a whole, and in many items there has been no increase. Lumber. as an example, holds a slightly lower level today than it did last March.

The Dow report shows that a house that cost $6000 before the recent war, now costs $12,732. It also estimates that the number oT new housing unis, homes or apartments, started this year, rvill probably reach the negihborhood of one million, the highest in history.

Mason Memorial Scholarships

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delcils yours for the orking

Chicago-Directors of Masonite Corporation have established five annual competitive college scholarships, each worth $750 a year, for children of employees in its hardboard plant at Laurel, Miss., as a memorial to William H. Mason, founder of the company.

Eugene Holland, president, in announcing the board's action, said a total of 20 students will receive substantial aid each year after the program has been in effect three years. The company's principal objective, Mr. Holland said, is to help promising high school graduates whose own resources would not permit them to attend college.

Winners of the annual competition will be chosen by an impartial committee on the basis of scholastic accomplishment, leadership ability, personality and financial need.

Scholarship holders may select the schools they wish to attend, and they will be under no obligation to the company either while in school or following graduation.

Sa 4t Th"." details

struction methods used in this area and residence casements.

incorporate the latest approved conwill be of assistance when installing

The folder illustrated encloses eight details for installing LUPTON Residence Casements (popular types of construction). Seven other details are available for less common construction.

Mr. Holland said first awards under the new plan will be made next April and will go into effect with the opening of the 1949-50 college year. The company, he explained, intends to assist Mason Memorial scholars through the usual four-year course by renewing grants for those who do outstanding work in college.

To Distribute Century Line

Gentlemen:

The 2oth Century Paint & Varnish Corp. of Brooklyn, New York, announces that Mr. Nathan C. Green is opening offices and warehousing facilities at 621 East 3rd St., Los Angeles, California as a distribution point for the 20th Century line of paint and varnish. Mr. Green will service the West Coast and the Southwest area.