Completed in early 1927, the building at 3025-27 Union Boulevard featured storefronts on the first floor and apartments above. Around the corner on Greer was a complementary apartment building which sadly have been demolished. The apartments were four and five rooms each.
The stores were advertised as excellent for “live wire.” Does anyone know what that expression means? Electricity was standard by that time, so that would hardly be something worth mentioning.
Obviously the storefronts have been heavily altered over the years.
The apartments were advertised as having steam heat, janitorial service, hardwood floors, Murphy beds and Craftex Walls, which was a heavily textured plasterwork popular at the time. There is a modern product with the same name but I don’t think it’s related.
The building was constructed by the Bilt Best Construction Company. One of the early tenants may have been a confectionary. As it stands now, the building sits vacant with empty lots surrounding it. I don’t hold out hope that it will be redeveloped any time soon, sadly.
Sad to see the decay but such beautiful detailing. Thank you for the closeup shots.
Thanks, but wait until tomorrow!
Thanks!
Chris! Thanks for focus on Union Blvd! Come on down to Pilgrim Congregational at 826 for a post tornado tour!
The phrase “live wire” was an idiom. Back then, calling someone a live wire meant they were energetic, enterprising, and enthusiastic/dynamic. It was basically saying: “If you’re an energetic, go-getter type who wants opportunities, this is the place for you.” It was a way to attract ambitious people—like a good spot for a sharp entrepreneur, salesman, or hustler—to thrive.
Oh right, of course!
I so enjoy your detailed photos of the magnificent craftsmanship. It is a lost art and sad that many of these buildings will not be revived.
I know it is illegal and unsafe but it would be cool to see what is intact inside.
Thank you so much for researching and sharing.
Thank you!