Hutch Post, in partnership with Steve Harmon and the Conard-Harmon Collection, is proud to present Throwback Thursday. Enjoy a weekly release from Steve Harmon as he presents the "Hutch - Then & Now Collection."
STEVE HARMON
Hutch Post Contributor
Today's "Throwback Thursday Collection" takes us to the 200 block of South Washington on the east side.
Hugh Gass decided to start a welding and machine workshop at 212 S. Washington. The first photo shows that business in 1917.
He started teaching welding and, by 1922, moved to 114 S. Washington to start producing boilers. The second photo shows what the 212 S. Washington location looks like today with the Salt Salon business in there now.
The Superior welding business continued to flourish and by World War II, a partnership was formed with Hugh Gass, his son, Harvey, and Clyde Anderson. The business was transformed into a training facility for 2,000 welders for the war effort. The name was changed to Superior Boilers. With 10 employees, they moved to 3406 E. 4th.
The business has continued to grow. The third photo is a 1985 aerial of the East 4th facility as it continued to spread out its footprint.
Superior Boiler has recently merged with several regional and national companies to continue its growth. It now occupies buildings on both sides of 4th street. The fourth photo shows the business offices today, now Superior Property Holdings L.L.C. at 3524 E. 4th.
To purchase a photo print, contact: [email protected].
Throwback Thursday is brought to you by:
Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce
STRATACA Kansas Underground Salt Museum