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 unit block of East Avenue B on the south side. The year is 1887, Hutchinson is growing quickly and so is crime.
On May 23, 1887, a special election was held and passed to build a new jail. Hopkins & Holland Architects of Topeka was selected to design it. The Reno County Jail was completed on March 22, 1888.
The first photo shows the building at opening, taken by Glines.
Each sheriff and their families lived in this building, with the sheriff's wife acting as the matron.
The second photo shows Sheriff John W. Jones, his family and his deputies out front in 1892 (from Jim Potter).
In 1900, the third Reno County Courthouse was built just to the west of the jail.
This courthouse began having some structural problems and had to be replaced in 1930.
In 1931, the new courthouse at 206 W. 1st was opened and the Reno County Jail was moved there.
In 1934, a new police and fire station was built across the street at 16 E. Ave B — that became the city jail. The old jail was then razed and the City of Turon took a section of the old jail for its use.
In 1935, a storage warehouse was built on the old 15 E. Ave. B property.
In 1985, Russell Johnston purchased this building and remodeled it to house his fledgling new ACS business.
The third photo shows the property at 15 E. Ave B today, still ACS (Applied Computer Services). ACS does printing and direct mailing. It is still owned by Russell Johnston. The business has been at this location for 38 years.
To purchase a print, contact: [email protected].
Throwback Thursday is brought to you by:
Gambino's Pizza
Sleep Shoppe & Furniture Gallery
Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce
STRATACA Kansas Underground Salt Museum
CLICK HERE to download the Hutch Post mobile app.
CLICK HERE to sign up for the daily Hutch Post email news update.