The Storied History of a Saginaw Landmark
Rexall Place, nestled in the heart of Saginaw, Michigan, is a testament to the city’s rich architectural heritage and the enduring spirit of its people. This historic building, originally constructed in 1879, has weathered the tides of time, transforming from a thriving commercial hub to a cherished community landmark.
The Birth of a Retail Empire
The story of Rexall Place begins with Peter C. Andre, a visionary developer who left an indelible mark on Saginaw’s cityscape. In 1872, Andre commissioned the construction of a three-story building on Court Street, a move that would set the stage for his subsequent endeavors. Determined to make the most of his vacant lots, Andre turned his attention to the corner of Court Street and North Michigan Avenue, where he erected a striking one-story structure.
This new building, completed in 1879, was designed to house five retail spaces – two facing Court Street, two facing North Michigan Avenue, and a large corner unit. It was in this prime corner location that druggists William Keeler and John C. Hogeboom opened their pharmacy, marking the beginning of a long and storied tradition of medical service within the walls of Rexall Place.
The Golden Age of Retail
Over the years, Rexall Place welcomed a diverse array of merchants, each adding their own unique character to the bustling commercial district. William Biesterfeld set up shop, selling a wide range of dry goods, while Eli Loeb catered to the fashionable needs of the community with his millinery and fancy goods store. In the space where Bauer’s Jewelry stands today, George S. Lockwood, Andre’s son-in-law, operated a crockery and glassware store until 1894, when he transitioned into the real estate and insurance business.
The crown jewel of Rexall Place, however, was the expansive corner space, which housed a succession of drug stores from 1879 until 2007. These establishments, run by local residents, not only sold medicines but also offered a range of goods, including tonics, potions, cigars, and even soda fountain services.
The Rexall Era
The building’s transformation into a Rexall-branded pharmacy came in 1946, when William E. Hinds and Louis G. Weinberg teamed up to operate the space as “Hinds and Weinberg,” advertising their wares as “Drugs, Sundries, Toilet Articles, Cigars, Tobacco, and Soda Fountain Services.” This partnership continued until 1953, when Reynold Pankonin took over and joined forces with the Rexall brand, becoming Rexall Pankonin.
To give the building a more modern appearance, the defining architectural features, such as cornices and brackets, were removed, and the façade was covered in metal panels. This renovation, however, would prove to be short-lived, as the building’s true character was about to be rediscovered.
Restoration and Revitalization
In 2014, Tom Germain and Alex de Parry formed a partnership to restore Rexall Place to its former glory. The removal of the metal panels was akin to uncovering “hidden treasure,” as a peeling mural on the Michigan Street side and the original “Hinds & Weinberg” inscription in the frieze on the Court Street side were revealed.
The restoration process proved to be a challenging yet rewarding undertaking. The team worked tirelessly to recreate the original façade, including the replacement of the cornices and bracketry. Renowned local artist Jim Fives was enlisted to painstakingly restore the two badly damaged murals, which were identified as the work of prolific Saginaw artist Ike Kozak.
Today, Rexall Place is once again a thriving commercial hub, with businesses like Bauer’s Jewelry – which has occupied the same space since the late 1890s – calling the building home. The restoration efforts have not only preserved a piece of Saginaw’s architectural history but have also revitalized the local community, instilling a renewed sense of pride and appreciation for this remarkable landmark.
A Lasting Legacy
As Betsy de Parry, the Vice President of Sales and Marketing, eloquently stated, the restoration of Rexall Place was “an opportunity to preserve a part of Old Saginaw’s rich heritage, an opportunity we welcomed.” And indeed, the team’s efforts have ensured that this architectural gem continues to captivate and inspire generations to come.
Rexall Place stands as a testament to the resilience and determination of the Saginaw community. Its story is a testament to the power of preservation and the enduring impact that a single building can have on the collective memory of a city. As visitors and residents alike explore the vibrant streets of Saginaw, Rexall Place remains a shining example of the city’s unwavering commitment to honoring its past while embracing its future.
Conclusion
The journey of Rexall Place is a microcosm of Saginaw’s rich history, a tapestry woven with the threads of entrepreneurship, community, and a deep respect for architectural heritage. From its humble beginnings as a bustling commercial hub to its recent restoration, this iconic building has maintained its allure, serving as a constant reminder of the city’s indomitable spirit.
As you plan your visit to Saginaw, be sure to add Rexall Place to your must-see list. Immerse yourself in the captivating stories that permeate its walls and bask in the timeless elegance that has withstood the test of time. Rexall Place is not just a building – it is a testament to the enduring power of preservation and the transformative impact that a community can have on its own legacy.
