05/26/2026
GLIMPSES OF SPRING VALLEY’S PAST ⬇️
Characterized by smooth face rusticated stone, this two story building was erected by local builder M. P. Lower, using local materials in the architectural style of “High Victorian Italianate.”
The striking stone block at 112 South Broadway required about a year for its construction in 1871-72 at a cost of almost $15,000.
Our local newspaper, Western Progress, followed its building progress closely, and praised the building owner - Emilus Parsons - born in New York State in 1838, and arrived in Spring Valley in 1862. He was described as a prosperous local real estate investor. Parsons was also admired as being “public spirited, enterprising, and a valuable addition to the town.”
The ground floor of Parsons’ stone block was divided into north and south sections by August of 1872; “E. Parsons has established his office and fitted it up in a fine style in one room of his stone block.” Reports the Western Progress, once again.
In 1876 it was noted that “Parsons Hall is now for the permanent use of the Masons, Temple of Honor, and Odd Fellows.” And in 1874 the ground floor was occupied by businesses featuring dry goods and hardware. Other early tenets included Otto Chiostri’s Oyster Parlor (can you image an oyster bar in Spring Valley?), and several other enterprises!
In 1971, Bud Hughes was operating a furniture store there when he sold it to the Veterans of Foreign Wars, who occupied one side of the building.
It was a tragic loss indeed when this venerable downtown building, listed on the Historic Register, burned to the ground in October of 2017. Even though tremendous efforts were made to save the building; this historic piece of architecture and local history was a complete loss.
Oh, how quickly things can change!
