Coleman Hardware Company Building facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Coleman Hardware Company Building
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 Location in Illinois
Location in the United States
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| Location | 100 Nettle St., Morris, Illinois |
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| Area | 1.6 acres (0.65 ha) |
| Architectural style | Late Victorian |
| NRHP reference No. | 94000980 |
| Added to NRHP | August 16, 1994 |
The Coleman Hardware Company Building is a historic landmark located at 100 Nettle Street in Morris, Illinois. This special building has a rich history, changing from a furniture factory to a hardware company over many years.
What is the Coleman Hardware Building?
The building has a unique U-shape. It features three separate sections, called wings. These wings surround a central gravel courtyard.
Who Built This Historic Building?
A man named J. H. Hall built the main part of the building in 1873. He planned for it to be a furniture factory. However, his business faced problems. He was unable to start making furniture there.
How Did the Building Become a Factory?
Soon after, the Sherwood School Furniture Company took over the building. They moved in and made many big improvements in 1874. They added a new building for a foundry, which is where metal is melted and shaped. They also built an addition onto the original structure. A new smokestack was also added.
How Did the Factory Help Morris?
The Sherwood Company brought a lot of good things to Morris. It hired 140 new workers. This created many jobs for people in the town. The company also bought materials from other local businesses. This helped the local economy grow.
Why Was the Canal Important?
The building's location was very important. It was right next to the Illinois & Michigan Canal. The company used the canal to transport its goods. They also used it as a source of water for their operations. This helped the company become very successful.
What Happened After the Fire?
In 1876, a fire destroyed one of the company's buildings. To replace it, they built a new structure. This new part is now the building's south wing.
When Did the Company Change Names?
The company changed its name in 1880. It became known as the Ohio Butt Company. Then, in 1887, it changed its name again. It was renamed the Coleman Hardware Company. This new name honored its president, Joseph G. Coleman.
What Did the Company Make?
During this time, the company stopped making furniture. Instead, they started making different products. They focused on cast iron fixtures. These are metal parts made by pouring liquid iron into molds. They also made other types of hardware.
What is the Building Used for Today?
The company was sold in 1935. The factory building was sold at the same time. Since then, many different industrial companies have used it. Today, this historic building serves as a community center.
When Was it Recognized as Historic?
The Coleman Hardware Company Building was officially added to the National Register of Historic Places on August 16, 1994. This means it is a very important historical site.
