Historic Name

Purcell's Hardware

Address

506 State Street

Municipality

City of Erie

Tax Parcel

17040002010300

Historic District

West Park Place HD

Classification

Class 1 (Definitions of Classes)

State Key Number

859

Historic Function

Commercial - restaurant

Style

Classical Revival

Built

1858

Architect

Builder

Barn Type on property

Last Entry Update

8/8/2016

The Purcell Hardware Store is one of sixteen buildings that make up the West Park Place National Historic District. These buildings were built in the Commercial Italianate style, mostly due to the influence of the primary architect, John Hill. John Hill was famous for erecting buildings in the Italianate Villa style, including his own residence, the John Hill House, on West Sixth Street. However, the Purcell’s Hardware Store building was not built by John Hill. The Neoclassical structure was designed by Samuel Lytle for prominent businessman John Moore. The building was completed in 1859, and due to its stucco façade that mimicked marble, was coined the “Marble Front.” Purcell’s Hardware Store operated in this building for several decades, staying in the Purcell family until it was sold in 1998. Molly Brannigans Irish Pub and Restaurant opened at this site in 2002, and in 2016, the local eatery is still in operation.

Sources:

Purcell's Hardware National Register nomination

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Photo courtesy, Erie County Assessment Office