website watertownhistory.org
ebook History of Watertown, Wisconsin
Racek Building
Theodore Racek
204-206 E. Main Street
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1860 Civil War token, (2 of
2), [tail]
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1860 Civil War token, (2 of
2), [head]
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The
building located at 204-206 Main Street was constructed in 1853. It was once known as the Theodore Racek Building. It began as a saloon, but has had a long
history as a drug store. It later became
the Busse/Aurora Pharmacy.
Originally,
the store featured a multi-bay storefront with corbelled brick cornice and
arched windows. It remained so through
the occupancy of Theodore Racek, J. Schubert Drug
Store, Eberle Drug Store
and William Weber Hardware Store. The
original cream brick is evident in the upper story and rear of the
building. Sometime in the early 20th
century, a remodeling was done, producing the current facade which features
stone and a full length canopy.
This
change renders the building ineligible for historic designation in spite of its
long and varied history as a retail establishment.
1865
10 12 BUILDING BOUGHT
J. W. Cole sold lot and building
on Main Street to R. Racek for $3,000. WD
1899
04 05 STORE FOR SALE
At a bargain and on favorable
terms, a store lately occupied by William Weber, Hardware. The same has a frontage of 24 feet 2 inches;
lot is 116 feet 4 inches deep, with a right of way 9 feet wide to Second
Street. Also a part of lot 3 adjoining
this lot on the east side [204-206 E. Main].
This is one of the most desirable business locations on Main
Street. The store has a good brick-paved cellar, an elevator and
three floors. Most suitable for a
business where storage room is an object.
At the terms this property is offered for sale the purchaser will find
it a well-paying investment to remodel the building and make a fine modern
store out of it. For particulars apply
to A. Tanck or the owner. WR
Cross References:
Edward Racek, brother
History of Watertown,
Wisconsin