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. |