Wason-Springfield Steam Power Blocks facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Wason-Springfield Steam Power Blocks
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Wason-Springfield Steam Power Blocks
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 Location in Massachusetts
Location in the United States
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| Location | 27-43 Lyman St.; 26-50 Taylor St., Springfield, Massachusetts |
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| Area | 1.2 acres (0.49 ha) |
| Built | 1873 |
| Architect | Perkins & Gardner |
| NRHP reference No. | 79000349 |
| Added to NRHP | June 19, 1979 |
The Wason-Springfield Steam Power Blocks are a group of three old buildings in downtown Springfield, Massachusetts. They are located on Lyman Street and Taylor Street. These buildings were constructed in the 1870s. They were built by two companies: the J.W. Wason Car Company and the Springfield Steam Power Company. Their goal was to help new businesses grow in an area then known as the North Blocks.
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History of the Springfield Power Blocks
These historic buildings played an important role in Springfield's past. They show how the city grew around its busy railroad lines. The area near the train station became a key spot for transportation.
Early Development Near the Railroad
In the 1850s, the streets closest to the train station, Lyman and Taylor Streets, started to develop. Small buildings made of wood and brick appeared. These buildings were used for shops and factories. This growth was because the railroad made Springfield a major hub for travel and trade.
The Wason Manufacturing Company's Role
A part of this area became home to the Wason Manufacturing Company. This company was famous for making railroad cars. In 1872, Wason Manufacturing moved to a new, larger factory outside the city. They then rented out their old factory space to smaller companies.
The Powers Block Building
One of the main buildings in the Wason-Springfield Steam Power Blocks is the Powers Block. It is a large brick building at 27-37 Lyman Street. The Wason Company built it in 1873 on some of its old factory land. This building has five stories. It was used as a warehouse and factory space, especially by the Powers Paper Company. Later, in 1881, the building was made much bigger. A sixth floor was added in 1910, making it even taller.
The Bryan Company Block
Another building in the group is the Bryan Company Block. It is located at 39-43 Lyman Street. This four-story brick building was built in 1889. It was constructed for the Clark W. Bryan Company.
The Taylor Street Block
The third building is the Taylor Street Block, built by the Steam Power Company. It is at 26-50 Taylor Street and was built in 1875. This building has three stories and is made of brick. It used to be longer than it is today. About 75 feet (23 m) of the building was removed. This was done to make space for the post office building on Dwight Street.
Modern Use and Historic Recognition
Today, these historic buildings have been updated. They are now used as homes and apartments. The Wason-Springfield Steam Power Blocks were recognized for their importance. They were added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1979. This listing helps protect them as important parts of history.
