By FRED SWIFT
Restoration of a downtown Noblesville landmark is being planned by the new owner of the Kirk Hardware building at 848-856 Logan St. The Kingsolver family is selling the three-story building, which has a long history on the Courthouse Square.
Justin Bowen, Carmel, is in the process of purchasing the 133-year-old building that currently houses Kirk Hardware and the Linden Tree gift and card shop. Bill Prater, owner of the hardware business, is retiring, but Bowen is trying to find a buyer who will continue to operate the store, a classic small town hardware store that has operated on the site since 1888.
Bowen says he hopes the Linden Tree will also stay in the space that, at one time, housed the Logan Theatre. The street-level façade of the building will be restored to its original historic appearance.
Office space is being planned on the second floor. On the third floor, the original home of the Noblesville Boys Club, a ballroom is planned.
Bowen says considerable work is needed on the building, including better access to the upper floors and numerous new safety features.
Prater says he is looking forward to retirement after many years in the hardware business, but is glad the new owner will attempt to find someone willing to take over the business.