Not long ago I came across an article in the Oshkosh Daily
Northwestern of March 2, 1897. The
feature was a preview of buildings which may be erected in the coming
season. What was interesting was that
the piece began with reasons as to why sometimes building aren’t built. In this case two structures planed by William
Waters never came to fruition. The first
of these proposed buildings was to be erected by A. E. Thompson on the Ely
property at the corner of Algoma and Elm Streets. A 70’
by 70’ stone and brick, three story structure was planned with the first floor
devoted to two retail spaces and the second and third floors, flats. The building was to include all “modern
improvements” ei; light, heat, ventilation, water and sanitation at a cost of
$15,000. For whatever reason the edifice
was never constructed, and one can only imagine how it looked. Fire insurance maps indicate several buildings
were on the Ely property.
The other building designed by Mr. Waters to be mention in
the article was a hall for the Danish Society.
It was to front on State Street next to the Northwestern Building and
was to measure 45’ by 100’ with two stories.
No basement was planned, there being no way to drain it, so the building
was to be heated with stoves. The first
floor was to be an auditorium and dance hall with a stage out fitted with
curtains at the far end the second floor was to be filled with a lodge room,
reading room dining room and parlor. The
total cost was estimated to be about $7,000.
One may speculate as to the buildings appearance and why it was never
erected but later a fine structure, The Carthage Building was put up on the
lot. An 1890 map of the area shows
houses occupied the spot.
