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 southwest corner of East 2nd and North Walnut.
The Benevolent & Protective Order of the Elks Club of Hutchinson was chartered in 1899.
In 1907, a $40,000 clubhouse was built at 117 N. Walnut. The first photo shows that building at opening.
The second view is from the southeast.
The third photo is from the north.
It had great amenities for the time. A lavish lobby and many meeting rooms, a grill room and even a billiard room, which is shown in the fourth photo.
The structure was razed in 1960 and a new clubhouse was built on-site in 1961.
In 1971, the clubhouse was sold to Southwestern Bell and the Elks moved to 201 N. Van Buren. The property became the Corner Restaurant in 1972, but didn't last long. The building was vacant from 1973 to 1990.
On June 28, 1991, the building was sold to the Chamber of Commerce and remodeled for its offices. It has been there ever since. The fifth photo shows the 117 N. Walnut Chamber of Commerce offices today with a fresh mural painted on the north wall from Mindy's Murals promoting Hutch. The building also houses Big Brothers, Big Sisters, Boys & Girls Clubs and United Way offices.
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
Anchor Inn and Anchor Away