Leo J Cary's involvement in the industrialization of Coquille and its hinterlands is well documented. His involvement in the river oriented economy of Coquille was as diverse and extensive as any other individual, according to Coquille historians. The Carys' business interests included timber holdings, a lumber company, two creameries, a dairy ranch and a river transportation company operating steam and gasoline powered boats. With these diverse elements in their business portfolio, there are few aspects of the economy and business community which their lives and business acumen did not touch. One industry which began with the Carys and still lives on is the Bandon Creamery which was a parent to the currently operating Bandon Cheese Factory. This company is widely known for the quality of its product, using the local dairy resources which were developed during and as a result of the Carys' involvement in the development and industrialization of Coquille.

The Cary house was built under the supervision of Mr. Cary who hired "Grandpa" Shelley and his sons Mark and Kirk as carpenters for the project. The Shelleys were homestead ranchers and craftsmen in the Coquille area. They built many of the fine homes in Coquille after the turn of the century as well as several commercial buildings. One notable building which still stands is the Shelley Block on the corner of East First Street and Adams. The Shelleys later occupied that building with a meat market purveying meat from a ranch which was east of Coquille in what is now known as the "Shelley Road Area". - NRHP, August 1991