The
Old Porter Hardware building is located at 106 2nd Street
SE in Olde Town Altoona. It was originally built during the
1870s by R. A. Crawford. The building was constructed using
brick manufactured by the Haines Brick and Tile Company. Jess
Porter opened his hardware business in the building in 1919.
Helen and Jim Blaney purchased
the building in 1982. While operating Back Door Fabrics and
an insurance agency at the location, the Blaneys worked to
preserve the building in its original state. Still intact
are a hand-operated elevator, original wood floors, and over
400 drawers made from ammunition cases.
In December of 2006, the City
of Altoona purchased the Old Porter Hardware building to use
as a historical center. The Altoona Area Historical Society
will have an office and museum in the building after June
1, 2007. |
