Helena in Lewis and Clark County, Montana — The American West (Mountains)
Gold Block
Helena Historic District
Photographed By Barry Swackhamer, July 14, 2021
1. Gold Block Marker
Inscription.
Gold Block. Helena Historic District. On July 16, 1928, a devastating fire swept between the Granite and Gold Blocks (note inscription, second story center). The structure was rebuilt by then-owner Charles Benton Power and was the last major downtown commercial building constructed by this wealthy family. The new Gold Block was designed by local architect George Carsley using a system called the “spiral mushroom,” which supposedly offered structural protection against earthquakes. Mission-style parapet tiling and Gothic-influenced windows and entrances highlight this fine example of 1920s commercial architecture.
On July 16, 1928, a devastating fire swept between the Granite and Gold Blocks (note inscription, second story center). The structure was rebuilt by then-owner Charles Benton Power and was the last major downtown commercial building constructed by this wealthy family. The new Gold Block was designed by local architect George Carsley using a system called the “spiral mushroom,” which supposedly offered structural protection against earthquakes. Mission-style parapet tiling and Gothic-influenced windows and entrances highlight this fine example of 1920s commercial architecture.
Location. 46° 35.312′ N, 112° 2.327′ W. Marker is in Helena, Montana, in Lewis and Clark County. Marker is on North Last Chance Gulch near East 6th Avenue, on the left when traveling north. This portion of Last Chance Gulch is a pedestrian mall and is closed to vehicular traffic. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 50-56 North Last Chance Gulch, Helena MT 59601, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are
The marker is to the right of the flower post at the top of the steps.
Credits. This page was last revised on November 22, 2021. It was originally submitted on November 22, 2021, by Barry Swackhamer of Brentwood, California. This page has been viewed 85 times since then and 12 times this year. Photos:1, 2. submitted on November 22, 2021, by Barry Swackhamer of Brentwood, California.
