224 -226 N Main

Constructed between 1886 and 1889, the structure at 224-226 N. Main was built with abundant optimism.

In April 1889 the editor of the Newton Daily Republican declared; "this will be one of the finest business blocks in the city when finished and the builders, Messrs Parris and Hanna are to be congratulated upon the enterprise shown by them." The new Bank of Commerce, one of five banks in Newton, was scheduled to open May 1, 1889 at the corner of 3rd & Main by E.L. Parris.

Parris' timing was bad. The Newton Panic of 1890 struck November 27, and brought down several Newton banks, the Newton Street Railway, and the Electric Light Company as real estate values plummeted. Parris was one of several Newton businessmen that were bankrupt over night.

After the failure of the Bank of Commerce the building was home to several different businesses.

In 1892, the partnership of Powell & Krueger opened a grocery to 214 Main and at some point the store was moved to 226 Main. In his December 31, 1920 obituary, W. A. Krueger was hailed as "one of Newton's successful businessmen, having been in the general mercantile business at 226 Main for the past twenty-nine years."

By the late 1950s, the cornice had been removed and part of the windows bricked over. Steel siding was installed by 1975.

From 1946 through the early 2000s the building was home to Supernois Furniture.

Today, 224-226 Main is home the Metcalf Sisters Antique Mall.

(Kristine Schmucker)