Half-way House, 1901
The Half-way House was built in 1829 at 947 South Front Street. It was a popular spot for travelers to stay when they were passing through town. In 1964 the house was demolished as part of a redevelopment project.
Bessemer House, 1900
The Bessemer House once stood at 243-245 Main Street. The property was purchased in March 1882 by Albert Hoerner who completed the construction of the building. After selling the business to Albert Obercash and Mr. Doehne, of Doehne’s Brewery, due to health problems, business remained brisk and lively. On one Forth of July, Obercash’s grandson, Mike, sold 20 half-barrels of beer. When prohibition came in, Mike would have no part of any illegal operations and sold the business. In later years, the Bessemer House acquired a distasteful reputation.
Strine’s Hotel, Circa 1902
Strine’s Hotel, also known as the Florence House in later years, is pictured during a flood, possibly in 1902. The hotel was located on the southeast corner of Main and Francis Streets.
Fletcher House, Circa 1910
The Fletcher House was located at 121 South Front Street. It was said that Fletcher had an architect draw up the plans for his hotel, but he was not satisfied with the results and refused to build it. For that reason, he went to Germany, had the plans drawn there, and returned to build according to the revised plan. The Fletcher House was a popular place for boxing fans to gather after a match.
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Return to Now and Then by Caroline Herter and Colby Baldis