701 Fifth Street - Spearfish Historic Commercial District - Spearfish, South Dakota
Posted by: 
BruceS
N 44° 29.395 W 103° 51.640
13T E 590590 N 4926920
Historic commercial building in the Spearfish Historic Commercial District in Spearfish, South Dakota.
Waymark Code: WMQAZ9
Location: South Carolina, United States
Date Posted: 01/25/2016
Views: 2
From the National Register Historic District Nomination form:
701 Fifth Street (1893): The Lown Building is the best period structure in the district
because it remains unspoiled by modern additions and also because of its creative
use of the native sandstone. A main feature of the building is an engaged second
story rectangular tower with stone balustrade with an Egyptian column as supporting
device from the ground. The flat roofline features cresting that resembles chimney
stacks. Round edged stone acting as dentils adorn the cornice line and intricate
designed stone work used on the front facade. Radiating voussoirs and flat surrounds
of cut stone form the window surrounds along with lugsills. The store front displays
paneled wood below the windows, stained glass, double door with sidelights and light
above. Pilasters of rough and smooth stone divides the rectangular windows of the
structure.
Text of marker:
William Lown built the Lown Mercantile in 1893. Swan Thompson was hired to construct the impressive two-story building using native sandstone. It was designed with large plate glass windows to display the many wares that were offered in the general store. The store was famous for its candy counter and wide range of items for sale. The upper level was mostly storage but on occasion was also used for dances. Brownie and Ernest, ran the store from this building for 70 years. It closed in 1963
The building appears to be in good condition. It is now used as a restaurant.