Corning in Steuben County, New York — The American Northeast (Mid-Atlantic)

Galvin and Haines Insurance

William’s Block

— Corning’s Gaffer District —

Galvin and Haines Insurance Marker image. Click for full size.

Photographed By J. J. Prats, October 12, 2014

1. Galvin and Haines Insurance Marker

Inscription. This building, which houses Galvin and Haines Insurance Company, is extraordinarily elaborate in its fine terra cotta detailing—most notably the famous “Owl of Market Street,” perched on top of the pedimented cornice.

Known as the William’s Block, the building was constructed in 1887 and was designed by H. G. Tuthill and Sons of Corning. The building featured an elegant and spacious hall on the third floor, which was the site of many community functions.

In keeping with the revitalization effort along Market Street, Galvin and Haines renovated their storefront in 1977.

Topics. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Notable Buildings. A significant historical year for this entry is 1887.

Location. 42° 8.595′ N, 77° 3.199′ W. Marker is in Corning, New York, in Steuben County. Marker is on East Market Street just west of Cedar Street, on the right when traveling west. It is mid-block, at the crosswalk. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 27 E Market St, Corning NY 14830, United States of America. Touch for directions.

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least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Ecker Drug Store (within shouting distance of this marker); The Rockwell Museum (within shouting distance of this marker); Concert Hall Block (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); City of Corning (about 300 feet away); Market Street Historic District (about 300 feet away); Brown's Cigar Store (about 400 feet away); Erie Avenue (about 400 feet away); At This Location an Alliance of Prosperity was Formed (about 500 feet away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Corning.

Galvin and Haines Insurance and Marker image. Click for full size.

Photographed By J. J. Prats, October 12, 2014

2. Galvin and Haines Insurance and Marker

Williams Block image. Click for full size.

Photographed By J. J. Prats, October 12, 2014

3. Williams Block

The Owl of Market Street is perched on the pediment on the left. In the narrow center section, above the third story window, “Willams Block.” and above the second story window, “1887.”

Credits. This page was last revised on June 16, 2016. It was originally submitted on January 1, 2015, by J. J. Prats of Powell, Ohio. This page has been viewed 367 times since then and 28 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3. submitted on January 1, 2015, by J. J. Prats of Powell, Ohio.

Editor’s want-list for this marker. Sharp close-up of the Owl of Market Street • Can you help?