HomeMy WebLinkAbout18 E Main 1984 MONTANA HISTORICAL AND
ARCHITECTURAL INVENTORY I Sitefl n
Legal Description: Original Townsite Lots 5 and N. 5' of 6/Blk A
Address: 18 East Main
Ownership:name: Robert 0. Smith
❑ private El public address: 10659 Bridger Canyon Road Roll# ]] Frame s 27
Historic Name: Gem Theatpr
Common Name: S tylon
❑ estimated
Date of Construction: 1900 k] documented
Architect: Unknown
Builder: Unknown
p Original Owner: Unknown
Original Use:
Present Use: Commercial Structure
Research Sources:
�. ❑ abstract of title EX city directories
❑ plat recordslmaps ❑ sewerlwater permits
IX tax cards ❑ obituaries
❑ building permit ❑ biographies
IR Sanborn maps—dates: 1904,1912,19 27
Bibliography:
Department of Sanitation
Avant Courier, 10-27-1900
Location map or building plan with arrow north
PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION: Describe present appearance of structurelsite,then contrast and compare that with it's original appearance,
noting additions,alterations,and changes in materials.Discuss significant architectural features.
This attached two-story commercial structure has a rectangular plan with an inset
storefront.;and a upper -story entry of light oak with a glass transom. The
asymmetrical facade has a central and an offset front entrance with copper store-
front windows on a granite base replacing the old bow windows. The second floor
features two combination 6/6 and 15/15 double-hung windows and a pressed tin
cornice with a variety of designs above the windows. The brick and incised lime-
stone construction is finished in glazed terra cotta (of a winged shield design)
surrounding the first floor storefront. It rests on a granite foundation. The
flat built-up roof lies perpendicular to the street.
HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Justify how the persons,important events,and/or historical patterns associated with the structure/site
and surrounding area lend the property significance.
Originally a dry-goods and clothing store, this structure underwent renovation
in 1908 to transform it into a moving picture theater. J.H. Marshall was the
proprietor in 1908, followed by Joseph Ruerup by 1915. In 1918, the Gem
Theater Company was listed as management. This group also spearheaded the
construction of the Ellen Theater across the street. The structure was later
occupied by the Montana Power Company in 1927.
This structure is potentially eligible for the National Register because
of its historical integrity and because of its architectural integrity of
materials, location, setting, design and use.
INTEGRITY, Assess the degree to which the structure/site,and surrounding area accurately convey the historical associations of the
property.
The historic integrity of this property has been retained due to the survival
of original design and materials and continuity of use, setting and location.
1
INFORMATION VALUE: Explain how the extant structure/site may demonstrate or yield information about its historic use or construc-
tion.
None.
FORM PREPA E BY•, GEOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION:
JAMC�S Ri. MCDONALD ARC,-ALCTS P.C.
Name Acreage:_
P. u.
Address
I USGS Quad:
Date: UTM's:
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