S.C. Wherry, a local contractor-builder, constructed the Wherry Block in 1887 in what was then the suburb of North Des Moines. He built the structure as an investment and an income-producing property. It was the first commercial building built at its intersection, which was one of only two commercial areas in that part of North Des Moines.
The two-story brick structure reflects the styling of the Late Victorian era. It features cast stone trim work, window hood molds on the second floor, and a pressed metal cornice. The main level contains two storefronts, while the second floor contains four apartment units. The building was also known as Wherry's Hall, Scruby Brothers Grocery, and Scruby's Grocery Store.
The building was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1998. It underwent an extensive renovation in 2005. Today, a new building sits to the north of the original structure, designed with an architectural style that complements the older 1887 building.
Sources: Wikipedia, OpenStreetMap, Wikidata, Wikimedia Commons
Written by Kyle McLonely
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