Historic Name

Chandlery Corner

Address

401-03 State St

Municipality

City of Erie

Tax Parcel

14010002020900

Historic District

Classification

Class 1 (Definitions of Classes)

State Key Number

89036

Historic Function

Commercial - business

Style

Italianate

Built

1832

Architect

Builder

Barn Type on property

Last Entry Update

8/11/2016

Chandlery Corner consists of three historical buildings constructed in the early nineteenth century: The Peter Rockwell House, Fredrick Schneider House, and Schneider/Kessler Chandlery. The first building constructed on this corner was the Peter Rockwell House at 405 State Street. Constructed in 1832, the structure was originally used as a residential rental property, as well as a boarding house for naval officers during the Civil War. In 1865, Pelton Marble Works moved into the building, operating there until the business closed in 1904. Christian Kessler, who later operated a grocery store next door, purchased the property that same year. After Kessler sold the property, the property served as headquarters for the Erie County Milk Association until 1924, a restaurant from the 1930s until the 1950s, and in subsequent years, a bar, lounge, and sub shop. In 2016, the building now houses the offices for Hardinger & Clement Opticians.

In 1846, the second structure, the Frederick Schneider House, was constructed at 3 East 4th Street. Frederick Schneider, who established Erie’s first candle business, was a leading member of Erie’s German community. In 1851, Schneider erected a commercial building adjacent to his home at 401-403 State Street. This building was used by Schneider as an outlet for his soap and candle production. Prior to this, Schneider operated his chandlery from his home. In 1870, Schneider sold his home and chandlery to Christian Kessler, who would later purchase the Peter Rockwell House in 1904. Kessler was a grocer and prominent member of the community, serving on both the Select and Common Councils, as well as the License Board. He and his family occupied the Frederick Schneider House until 1913, when the building was converted to a boarding house. The chandlery remained in operation until 1919, expanding into a grocery store sometime during Kessler’s ownership. After the chandlery closed, the property remained in the Kessler family, who rented the property to various businesses. In 2016, Northwest Savings Bank occupies the former Schneider/Kessler Chandlery, and the Frederick Schneider House has been converted into apartments. Chandlery Corner was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1987.

Sources: Northwest Institute survey 1982

Chandlery Corner National Register nomination

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Photo courtesy, Erie County Assessment Office