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 North Main on the east side.
Henry Wells and William Fargo, who founded American Express, formed Wells Fargo & Co. in 1852 to provide "express" and banking services to California, which was growing rapidly. They transported gold from the Philadelphia mint and express mail delivery.
About 1890, they opened an office in Hutchinson.
In 1900, they built the red-brick building at 216 N. Main for their new facility. The first photo shows their delivery wagon in front of that office.
The second photo shows their banking area inside.
In 1905, Wells Fargo separated its banking and express operations. During the first World War, it became the U.S. Railway Express Agency (REA). The third photo shows that operation in 1929.
It operated there until 1968.
From 1969 to 1991, Pegues Department Store made it an annex to sell just men's clothing, calling it Pegues Place. The fourth photo shows that effort in 1971.
Between 2004 and 2008, Linda Dillon operated the Blue Duck Bistro there, after a complete remodeling.
Between 2009 and 2021, Gary and Jill Brown ran the restaurant as the Jillian's Italian Grill and Wine Bar. The fifth photo shows the business at 216 N. Main today, now known as Roma's Italian Restaurant, opened in October of 2023, and owned by Tony Demaj. The property is still owned by the James L. Strawn Trust.
To purchase a print, contact: [email protected].
Throwback Thursday is brought to you by:
Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce
STRATACA Kansas Underground Salt Museum
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