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SP 16-15 5 w a: ::::l I- o 56 West Main-1892, 1898 Architect/Builder: .-~ Building Materials: bri ck, adobe Building Type/Style: Victorian commercial Description of physical appearance & significant architectural features: (Include additions, alterations, anCillary structures, and landscaping if applicable) W I- :t o a: < 6 > a: o l- I/) :t: The Wasatch Block is a two story brick commercial building. The elaborate corbelled and paneled brick parapet includes a metal plaque in the center with the name "Wasatch Block" in stamp led metal. Beneath the plaque a large eliptically arched window opening is divided into three parts by Eastlake mullion trim. The two side bays each have a pair of round arched windows. The second floor windows and frames are nearly all intact. The first floor windows have been replaced with aluminum sash and the transom area is covered with a large metal and plastic sign. Statement of Historical Significance: o o o o o Aboriginal Americans Agriculture Arch itecture The Arts Commerce o o o o o Communication Conservation Education Exploration/Settlement Industry o o o o o Military Mining Minority Groups Political Recreation o Religion o Science o Socia-Humanitarian o Transportation This building is significant as one of the more elaborate examples of Victorian commercial architecture on Main Street. In 1891, the Wasatch Mercantile Co. was organized by Abram Johnson and Erastus Kofford, who later built the Wasatch Block. Although one source places the date of construction of this building at 1892, it is likely that the building was substantially or entirely rebuilt during or after 1898. Its adobe walls, and the presence of a similarly sized two-story building on pre-fire 1898 Sanborn map suggest that the 1892 building exists but was rebuilt and refaced in the architectural style given commercial buildings in the district after the fire. The building was known as the "Wasatch Block" as indicated by an extant inscription plaque. It housed a general store, then the "Star Theatre," and more recently, "J.C. Penny and Company." (1926) Presently, the "Big V Department Store" occupies the building.