Weaver Mercantile Building facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Weaver Mercantile Building
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The Weaver Mercantile Building from the south
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 Location in Minnesota
Location in the United States
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| Location | U.S. 61 and Minnesota 74, Weaver, Minnesota |
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| Area | Less than one acre |
| Built | 1875 |
| Architectural style | Italianate |
| NRHP reference No. | 78001567 |
| Designated | September 21, 1978 |
The Weaver Mercantile Building is a special old building located in a small place called Weaver, Minnesota. It was built way back in 1875. A "mercantile building" is like an old-fashioned general store where people could buy all sorts of things they needed. This building is important because it tells us a lot about how people lived and shopped a long time ago.
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Why is This Building Special?
The Weaver Mercantile Building was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1978. This means it's a very important building for its history and design. It was chosen because it shows us what buildings looked like in the past and how people did business.
A Glimpse into the Past
Weaver, Minnesota, used to be a busy community along the Mississippi River. Many years ago, the river was like a highway for boats carrying goods and people. The Weaver Mercantile Building was one of the main stores in this lively town. It's one of the few old commercial buildings from that time that is still standing today.
What is Italianate Architecture?
The building is a great example of something called "Italianate architecture." This style was very popular in the 1800s, especially along river valleys like the Mississippi.
Key Features of Italianate Style
- Tall, Narrow Windows: Italianate buildings often have tall, thin windows.
- Decorative Brackets: Look for fancy brackets under the roof or windows.
- Low-Pitched Roofs: The roofs are usually not very steep.
- Ornate Details: They often have decorative elements that make them look elegant.
This style made buildings look grand and important, even for a simple store. The Weaver Mercantile Building shows us how this popular design was used for everyday businesses.
What Was a Mercantile Building For?
Imagine a time before big supermarkets and shopping malls. A mercantile building was a one-stop shop for almost everything. People would come to buy food, tools, clothes, and household items. It was also a place where people gathered to share news and catch up with neighbors.
The Heart of the Community
In small towns like Weaver, the mercantile building was often the center of daily life. It wasn't just a store; it was a community hub. Farmers would sell their crops there, and families would stock up on supplies for weeks. It played a big part in the local economy.
Preserving History
Keeping buildings like the Weaver Mercantile Building safe helps us learn about our history. It's like a time capsule that shows us how towns grew and how people lived in the past. It reminds us of the importance of river communities and the businesses that supported them.
