The July 24, 1880, issue of the Valley Falls New Era reported on improvements made in the town during the spring and summer. Among those built and finished and about ready for occupation was the business house planned by M.P. Hillyer.
The business, located on the southwest corner of Broadway and Sycamore streets, was 60 x 25 feet on the ground with a basement and two stories above. The basement, 10 feet high, was used as a barber shop and storeroom. The second story was to be occupied as a banking house 14 feet high.
A brick and iron vault was installed and excellenty lighted. Front windows were large and composed of five French plate glass each. The upper story, owned by the Valley Falls Lodge, F.A.M., was 15 feet and used as a lodge room. It was divided into a hall 48 x 22 feet and used as an ante and preparation room.
The wall of the building were of stone on the rear and west side, and on the front and east of brick, and finished with a heavy cornice. Eventually, the structure was enlarged and 12 or 14 rooms were added and it was known as the Hillyer House or Hillyer Hotel, famous for its elegance and well-known clientele.
The Valley Falls Historical Society Museum will be open at 10 a.m. Saturday, April 21.
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