The Ackerman Block

The Ackerman Block. . , Construction of the Ackerman Block was completed in 1886. At first glance it appears to be a single 40'x60' building, but in actuality, the structure is two buildings with a central focal point. , The western section of this attractive block was first occupied by Benjamin F. Ackerman, a leading manufacturer of harness and many other leather products, including trunks and saddles. , Mr. Ackerman sold his business in 1893 to harness manufacturer W.A. Beatty, but retained ownership of the building. He moved to Peterborough about 1899 where he built a four-storey factory and became the largest manufacturer of harness in Canada. , George Jackson, purchased the east section of the building in the early 1900s and opened a farm implement dealership. Following Mr. Jackson's death in 1930 his son Ted, a local auctioneer, assumed ownership. , In 1957 Herb Brooks purchased the entire building and opened a feed business and hatchery in the east side. , Mr. Brooks sold the west block to Earl Argue, who opened a grocery store here, before selling the business to Merl Dowson in 1949. The Dowson's operated a Red and White food store at this location until 1975. Jack Owens was the next owner of this section, opening a pet shop here in 1976. , Other businesses to have operated from this two-section building include Van Camp Contracting, Murdock's Carpet, Lishman's Furs and currently Tribal Voices. , The present owner of the eastern section of this historic building is JoAnne Callery, who operates Village Decor Shoppe.