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 West 4th on the north side.
In 1925, B.F. Nichols and C.L. Steed started the business Woodwork Mfg. and were at 4 S. Walnut between 1925 to 1930.
But this article is about the property at 14-16 W. 4th.
14 W. 4th was built in 1920 to become the Indian Motorcycle Dealership in Hutch.
16 W. 4th was built in 1928.
In 1930, Woodwork Mfg. moved to this location and continued to grow successfully. The first photo shows the company at this location.
In 1942, during World War II, the name was changed to Aircraft Woodwork Mfg. Inc. and grew from eight employees to 1,000 employees, and operated in four buildings between 4th and 7th from Main to Washington. They built several wood components for the CG-4A Glider used at the Normandy invasion, including the nose section.
After the war, the company became Woodwork Mfg. & Supply Co.
In 1974, the 14-16 W. 4th location was remodeled. The second photo shows this at opening.
In 1979, Woodwork Mfg. moved in with Architectural Millwork in a new building at 401 S. Adams.
Since then, the 14-16 W. 4th buildings have been home to Rand Tool Energy Corp., Armed Forces Recruiting, Hutch Title, Don Scott Acct. and Strategic Financial Concepts. The third photo shows the 14-16 W. 4th location today, housing North Fork Financial L.L.C. with the property now owned by A&A Enterprises.
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