Gaithersburg in Montgomery County, Maryland — The American Northeast (Mid-Atlantic)

John A. Belt Building

Built: 1903

Photographed By Tom Fuchs, November 3, 2007

1. John A. Belt Building Marker

Inscription. Click to hear the inscription.

According to an 1880’s newspaper report, John A. Belt was the proprietor of the largest mercantile establishment in Montgomery County. Belt’s store and upstairs hall, known as Norman Hall, became the pivotal structure of Gaithersburg’s social, cultural, and civic activities. The present 1903 brick structure replaced an earlier wooden one lost to fire. The early 20th century commercial building also housed one of the first Gaithersburg post offices and a 1928 automobile showroom. This National Register Historic site was rehabilitated in 1987 when the rear addition was constructed.

Erected by City of Gaithersburg.

Topics. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Industry & Commerce. A significant historical year for this entry is 1903.

Location. 39° 8.528′ N, 77° 11.618′ W. Marker is in Gaithersburg, Maryland, in Montgomery County. Marker is at the intersection of East Diamond Avenue and South Summit Avenue, on the right when traveling east on East Diamond Avenue. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 227 East Diamond Avenue, Gaithersburg MD 20877, United States of America. Touch for directions.

Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are

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within walking distance of this marker. Baltimore and Ohio Railroad Station (within shouting distance of this marker); Pythian Temple (within shouting distance of this marker); DNC Building (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); Building The Future (about 300 feet away); The Schwartz House / Gaithersburg City Hall / Schwartz Peony Garden (about 300 feet away); Supplying an Agricultural Community (about 300 feet away); The Gaithersburg School (about 300 feet away); The Summit Hotel (about 300 feet away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Gaithersburg.