Montana Historical and Architectural Inventory (Site # )

Address:	316 W Main
Ownership Name:	Ross, Clarence and Mary Davidson
Historic Name:
Common Name:	New Fad
Date of Construction:	1890
Architect:
Builder:
Original Owner:	George Stafford
Original Use:	Lodging rooms
Present Use:	Men’s Wear

Physical Description:

This two story commercial building is an 11 brick façade with three symmetrical penetrations (which have been filled) on the second floor and a large single store-front opening on the first floor. The parapet in front of the flat roof has a concrete coping and a subtle recessed panel pattern. A brick rowlock string course occurs at roofline level, and a brick soldier belt course occurs over the transom of the first floor. Second floor penetrations have soldier course above the precast corner accents at the intersection of jamb and head. Prism glass occupies the transom; storefront treatment includes large pane glazing in narrow dark metal framing with ceramic tile sills below. A stepped recess of display windows maximizes displays exposure.

As noted in the Integrity statement, the façade is suspected as being an early remodeling to a stone building. This structure qualified for register listing under Criteria C even though it is a renovation, due to its strong representation of the masonry architecture in the commercial area.

Historical Significance:

This property is significant because it is a good example of the development in Lewistown from "trading post" architecture to permanent city and it is associated with George M. Stafford, who was the County Surveyor. Stafford owned a considerable portion of the original townsite and "one of the handsomest residences in Lewistown" (which has been torn down).

One of the few remaining pre-1900 masonry structures in the commercial district, this building houses Stafford’s Harness and Saddlery Shop.

Integrity:

This building occupies its original site; it contributes to the masonry character of the central business district. Stone methodology on the back and sides of the building date suggest that the façade was the product of an early-day renovation.