The building once occupying 300-304 Main St. Was known as the "Old Opera house" as far back as 1893.

Before the turn of the century, business's on the first floor included the post office, a printer, the Steam laundry, and the Prison City Shaving Parlor advertised Hot and Cold baths all day! Hair dressing a specialty!

The second floor held the Opera theater which hosted many town events, from South Ward commencement ceremonies, traveling bands, singing groups, church meetings and the annual Festival for the poor. The festival was sponsored by the Ladies Benevolent Society which fundraised enough money in the year 1884 to sponsor 12 families.

In 1894, J. E. Williams, Berlin, J. E. Brinkerhoff and Albert Donovan put in a new wood floor on the second floor and turned it into a roller skating rink. This was much needed activity center in town during the winter months.

In 1960, a young presidential candidate by the name of John F. Kennedy stopped by on the campaign trail. He spoke to the gathered crowds outside what was then called Jockeys Tap. You may remember stopping for a cold one at John-E-Vans, or enjoying a delicious meal at the House of Hunan.

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The next clue is: 

(this one is not downtown)

THE FIRST MANSION IN TOWN 1879.

TODAY, I STAND, STILL BEAUTIFUL AND FINE!