The Simmons Hardware Company Warehouse, more affectionately known as the Battery Building, stands as a testament to the industrious spirit of Sioux City, Iowa. This historic edifice, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is not just an architectural marvel but also a symbol of the city's rich commercial heritage. The warehouse, with its robust structure and storied past, invites visitors to step back in time and explore the evolution of American industry.
Constructed in 1905, the Simmons Hardware Company Warehouse was designed to facilitate the swift distribution of hardware products across the nation. The architects, Gordon, Tracy, and Swartwout, drew inspiration from the Marshall Field's Wholesale Store in Chicago, crafting a building that was both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The construction was overseen by Frank Bunker Gilbreth, Sr., a pioneer in time and motion studies, who later became immortalized in the book Cheaper by the Dozen.
The building's foundation was a feat of engineering, with hundreds of 20-foot hardened concrete piles driven into the soft ground to support the estimated two million bricks used in its construction. This massive undertaking required over 700 railway cars to transport materials, highlighting the logistical prowess of the era. The warehouse even boasted its own railroad switching facilities, underscoring its importance in the supply chain of the early 20th century.
The Simmons Hardware Company Warehouse is easily recognizable by its 123-foot clock tower, a beacon of industrial might and elegance. This tower was designed to be more than just an architectural feature; it was a symbol of the company's motto: The recollection of quality remains long after the price is forgotten. The clock face was originally intended to feature the letters T-R-O-Q-R-L-A-T-P-I-F, an abbreviation of this enduring slogan.
The building served as a hub for the Simmons Hardware Company's extensive inventory, which included everything from ammunition and knives to dog collars and wires. The company's innovative approach to business, which involved acquiring suppliers to ensure priority access to the best machinery, set it apart in the competitive hardware market.
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Throughout the years, the warehouse has seen multiple transformations. After the merger with the Winchester Repeating Arms Company in the 1920s, the building returned to its roots when the companies separated in 1929. It later housed the Kollman-Warner Seed Company in 1939 and the Sioux City Battery Corporation in 1944. In 1973, it was acquired by Bomgaars, a local farm retailer, which used it as a warehouse and corporate office until 2005.
The building's most recent evolution has been its transformation into a vibrant part of Sioux City's entertainment landscape. In 2013, the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino announced plans to revitalize the warehouse. This ambitious project included a 54-room boutique hotel on the top floors, casino offices, and a main floor featuring a hotel lobby and restaurants. The addition of a new casino adjoining the historic building has breathed new life into this iconic structure.
Today, visitors to the Simmons Hardware Company Warehouse can experience a unique blend of history and modernity. The building's historic charm is preserved in its brick façade and towering clock, while its interiors have been thoughtfully adapted to house contemporary amenities. The hotel and casino offer a luxurious escape, with dining options that cater to a variety of tastes.
For those interested in the building's storied past, the Battery Building stands as a reminder of Sioux City's industrial heyday. Its walls echo the bustling activity of a bygone era, when the warehouse was a vital cog in the national distribution network. As you explore the site, you can almost hear the clatter of railway cars and the hum of machinery that once filled its halls.
The Simmons Hardware Company Warehouse is more than just a building; it is a symbol of resilience and innovation. Its ability to adapt and thrive in changing times reflects the spirit of Sioux City itself. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply a curious traveler, the Battery Building offers a fascinating glimpse into the past, present, and future of this remarkable city.
In conclusion, the Simmons Hardware Company Warehouse is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Sioux City. Its rich history, architectural beauty, and modern amenities make it a captivating attraction that tells the story of American industry and ingenuity. As you stand before its towering clock tower, you'll be reminded of the enduring legacy of quality and craftsmanship that defines this historic landmark.
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