Evaluation:

This is a contributing building within the historic district.  While later in date, off of Fifth Street and differing in its historical function (automobile company), it represents how the downtown met a full range of commercial services.

Physical Description:

This is a double-vaulted roof brick and concrete block garage building that measures 100 feet by 100 feet. It has pedimented east/west end walls. The north addition is concrete block. The core building was likely veneered with a wire-cut polychrome brick, now painted

Documented Alterations:

The Tribune (May 2, 1923) reported: “A modern fireproof garage is being built at Fourth and Elm streets in Valley Junction by E. D. Bronn, who will sell Buicks and Chevrolets.  The new building is of brick and will contain the most modern equipment for upkeep and repair work on automobiles.  It is being built and equipped at an approximate cost of $15,000.  Mr. Brunn was formerly associated with the Stewart-Brunn company, which owned the Valley Auto company.”  Then north addition is metal clad on its north wall and west windows have been infilled. The 1937 Sanborn shows the original building, the 1941 map shows a 1939 north addition on the west half of Lot 8 along with a concrete block extension to the northwest. The plan was squared off in 1939. The building was painted after 1947.  The building suffered $60-70,000 in roof damage with the June 1986 tornado,  The building was rehabilitated inside and out in 2017.

Commercial History: