Welcome to a fascinating tour of the De Steiguer Building, located in the heart of Guthrie, Oklahoma. As we embark on this journey, lets uncover the rich history and distinctive attributes that make this building truly special.
The De Steiguer Building was completed in 1902 during Guthries heyday as a rapidly growing city following the 1889 Land Run. The structure itself is a stunning example of early-20th century architecture, showcasing elements of Romanesque and Gothic styles. Its striking red brick facade features intricate stone carvings, wrought iron balconies, and massive arched windows that give it a commanding presence on the corner of Oklahoma Avenue and Division Street.
The building was named after its original owner, Charles De Steiguer, who was an influential businessman in Guthrie at the time. He commissioned this iconic structure to house his successful dry goods store on the ground floor and rented out the upper floors for residential apartments. The De Steiguer Building quickly became a popular gathering place, hosting various social events such as dances, card games, and even theater performances in its spacious central hall.
Over the years, the building has seen several transformations, adapting to meet the needs of the ever-changing city around it. In 1917, a silent movie theater called The Crystal moved into the ground floor space after the dry goods store relocated. The theater operated until the late 1920s when it closed its doors due to the rise of talkies. Following this period, the building housed various businesses such as law offices, doctors clinics, and even a popular bar called The Silver Bullet.
As we walk through the De Steiguer Building today, you can still feel the history embedded in its walls. The ground floor now houses an eclectic mix of shops and restaurants, while the upper floors have been converted into comfortable apartments with stunning views of Guthries historic downtown area. Each room tells a story, filled with echoes of laughter from long-gone parties and the whispers of countless conversations that took place within these walls over the years.
In conclusion, the De Steiguer Building stands as a testament to Guthries rich history and architectural heritage. Its unique blend of Romanesque and Gothic styles combined with its fascinating past make it an essential stop on any tour through this charming city. So let your imagination run wild as we explore this gem of Oklahoma architecture together.