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 2nd on the north side.
The Kansas Lumber Company was organized in 1878 by W.C. Edwards and John McCullough and occupied various locations but, by 1882, the offices were located at 14-16 E. 2nd. The first photo shows those offices in 1911.
In 1928, the 14 E. 2nd property contained the "Ye Janeway Book & Gift Shoppe." The second photo shows that business when having a closeout sale in preparation to move in 1929.
That's when Emery Colson razed the old building to construct a new six-story hotel to be named the Leon Hotel. The third photo shows the Leon under construction during the July 13, 1929, flood.
The Leon Hotel opened for business in September of 1929.
Emery Colcon's wife succeeded his ownership in 1955.
The Leon was a viable hotel for many years. The fourth photo shows the hotel in 1964 when owned by N. Frederick English.
In 1971, L.B. Davis remodeled the Leon into apartments and it became known as Downtown Apartments. Ray Siebert owned this building for many years, calling it the Leon Place Apartments. The fifth photo shows the 14 E. 2nd address today, now known as the Leon Place Apartments & Offices, with the Vintage Wanderer antique store in front. The building is now owned by Leon Place L.L.C. of Kansas City, Kansas.
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