A downtown Bismarck landmark sitting at the city’s four-way stop since its construction in the late 1800s fell victim to neglect and the ravages of time. Last week, the building was demolished. Dan Schunks
The building was demolished last week
A Bismarck landmark fell victim to neglect and the ravages of time this past week with the demolition of the building that stood at the city’s four-way stop for over a century.
The building, which dates to the late 1800s, had been in a state of neglect and decay for years and had been condemned by the city as a safety hazard. Bulging and leaning walls raised concerns of its imminent collapse if significant snow were to accumulate on its roof, which was in decrepit condition.
After the demolition was completed, all that was left of the structure was rubble and memories. Dan Schunks
Pictures of the storefront and signs painted on the brick walls indicated that the general department store was originally named Butler’s Store. Other businesses located next to the store over the years included a liquor store, a possible drug store, and a cowboy church, which was razed earlier in 2023.
Ownership and responsibility for the crumbling and dilapidated structure have been at the heart of resolving the prolonged situation. The city had attempted to address the obvious safety and eyesore problem and had agreed to meet and hear representatives of the building at several Bismarck Board of Aldermen meetings, but each time, the representatives failed to appear without notice or excuse. The situation became so dire that the city was left with no alternative other than to proceed with the demolition and place a lien on the property until its ownership is clarified.
There are no plans for future development of the property at this time other than to remove the remnants of the demolished structures and make the lots safe and secure.
Dan Schunks is a staff writer for the Daily Journal. He can be reached at dschunks@dailyjournalonline.com.
