Galion’s iconic Hackedorn Building, located on the Public Square and for decades the home of Quay Drugs, has been undergoing a much-needed facelift over the past two weeks. As part of ongoing preservation efforts, the building’s exterior was power washed, its roof repaired, and resealed. These renovations highlight the owner’s commitment to preserving Galion’s historical architecture and ensuring that the Hackedorn Building remains a proud fixture in the heart of the city.
A Glimpse Into the Building’s Past
Constructed in the decade leading up to the Civil War, the Hackedorn Building stands as a testament to Galion’s rich history. Erected within a few years of the original Central Hotel, the building has witnessed and housed numerous events and businesses that shaped the town’s narrative. One of the most well-known images of Galion’s Public Square, captured on July 4, 1876, features the building prominently. At the time, E.M. Vining’s store operated on the ground floor where Quay Drug is located today, alongside R. Morris Jewelry Store.
The second floor housed the office of Dr. Noah E. Hackedorn, the building’s namesake, while the third floor served as a lodge hall for both the Odd Fellows and Masons. These organizations were vital to the community’s social fabric, regularly hosting gatherings that united local citizens.
E.M. Vining’s Store: A Glimpse of 19th-Century Retail
E.M. Vining’s store, which specialized in millinery and “fancy goods,” catered to the more refined tastes of Galion residents. During Christmastime in 1878, the store offered a wide range of fashionable items such as pearl card cases, Russian leather and English calf pocket books, white and black fans, Chinese silk handkerchiefs, vases, and wax dolls. This curated selection was a testament to the town’s growing sophistication and the influence of global trends on local commerce.
Dr. Hackedorn: A Pillar of Galion’s Medical Community
Dr. Noah E. Hackedorn, whose medical office was located on the second floor, was a respected figure in Galion’s history. Arriving in Galion from Ontario in 1854, around the same time the building was constructed, Dr. Hackedorn would go on to practice medicine in the community for 45 years. He was a graduate of Jefferson Medical College in Philadelphia, one of the most prestigious medical schools of the time, further solidifying his reputation as a skilled and trusted physician.
Thrills from the Past: Professor Stookey’s Daredevil Feat
The Hackedorn Building is also the backdrop to one of the most daring stunts in Galion’s history. In the 1880s, a performer by the name of Professor Frank Stookey walked a tightrope strung from the top of the Hackedorn Building to the Citizens Bank Building, now the location of the USBank Building. The event drew a crowd of around 500 spectators, including 300 children, who gathered to witness this breathtaking feat of balance and skill. It was an event that etched itself into the collective memory of the town and added a layer of excitement to the building’s storied past.
Recognizing History
In November 1976, the Hackedorn Building was placed on the National Register of Historic Places, cementing its significance. While time has weathered some parts of the structure, the building has remained remarkably preserved, a symbol of the town’s resilience and pride. Notably, the original building featured two tall interior chimneys, one on each end, which were prominent in its early design.
