Description

The building was the first commercial structure to be constructed in Vernon’s commercial district following a devastating fire in 1859 which consumed the entire block along Pike Street, across from the Jennings County Courthouse. The “new”, 3-story, Odd Fellows Building, also referred to as Mt. Ida Lodge # 73, was completed in 1860 and was one of two matching buildings that bookend the town’s one-block commercial district. The building was built by contractor Samuel Read who constructed the Jennings County Courthouse. Read resided for a time on the second floor of the building. The third floor houses the Odd Fellows Lodge rooms and the first floor was occupied by a tin shop owned by James H. Wells. An attorney, William Hagins, also occupied the building. The three story masonry building is a contributing structure in the Vernon Historic District which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Rehabilitation work is eligible for the Federal 20% Rehabilitation Tax Credit. Property sold with preservation covenants attached to deed requiring approval by Indiana Landmarks for exterior changes and interior rehab. Interior woodwork around doors and windows at the second and third stories to be retained in rehabilitation. The property was acquired by Indiana Landmarks in December 2023 and the following work was undertaken: Selective masonry repointing, including significant work at parapet level; new dimensional shingle roof and guttering; rebuilt and painted side cornice with custom fabricated corbels, new authentic custom wooden window sashes at 3rd floor level with salvage antique window locks, some new window sashes on second floor, Significant interior clean-up of trash and debris, rebuilt 1st floor wooden floor system south side storefront space with repointed foundation stones, poured concrete foundation with perimeter drain and sum pump pit. New second floor floor system at NE corner of building at second level. Call to schedule your showing today!