by Laurel | May 4th, 2010
High Street Between Appleton & Essex
[Anyone know where the location of the building is or was? Did it survive the years? Was wondering if it is what appears to be the eight-story building mid-block in the image. Above is a bing.com captured image of the area mentioned in the article below.]
May 4, 1900
Louis A. Lafrance has decided to make his new High street block an eight-story structure, with elevator and all the modern improvements. The building will occupy a space 50 by 88 feet, taking the two lots that Mr. Lafrance bought some time ago, each of which has a 25 foot front. These are about all of the lots on High street that are on the market, except at the highest prices. The Holyoke water-power company only leases for 50 years its High street lots, which accounts for so many monitors, it is claimed. The new building will have a private telephone system, connecting with the cafe on the first floor, so that cigars, etc., can be ordered without leaving office rooms. Architect Reid says that the new block will be one of the finest in Holyoke when completed, and be an ornament to High street. It has been found that the top stories were the most sought after in the Ball and Senior buildings as a fine view is obtainable from them, and with an elevator one floor is as easily reached as another. There will be a private lighting pant, and both light and elevator will be on until a late hour for the convenience of the tenants. The first floor will be devoted to stores, the nest three to offices and the last four to lodge rooms. It is likely that there will be a roof garden, though the plans have not yet been fully detailed for that luxury. There have been a number of applications for room in the new building, but it is likely no space will be contracted for at once. It is planned to have the best thing that can be built for money. The trend of Holyoke building of late has been in the direction of Appleton street, and the building is to be located between Appleton and Essex streets, close to the former. Mr. Lafrance is an experienced builder, and has some of the best-paying and best planned flats and tenements in Holyoke.
From The Springfield Republican.
Hotel Essex, still there and for sale.