If this is 1890, it must be Bluffton
If this is 1890, then this must be Bluffton.
It is Bluffton and it is Main and Cherry in one of the earliest photos of Main Street. Will Triplett took this photo.
Please look at the addition two photos below - we've enlarged portions of the original photo to look closer at this scene.
Here are some observations:
• The belfry of the school is on the far left.
• The Methodist Church (replaced in 1915 by the present building) is the next steeple.
• The only building in this photo standing today is the 101-103 N. Main St. block. • Additions were added later to rear of the 101 N. Main St. building.
• Trees are planted along Main Street.
• The trees are protected by wooden frames taller than the men on the street.
• Three of the buildings have second floor balconies.
• That might be a water pump in front of 101 N. Main.
• There’s also a horse trough and water pump on Cherry Street.
• There’s a jewelry store with a large sign in the shape of a pocket watch on the side of the building.
• A barber pole directs customers to a second-floor barber.
• Trees are also planted along what is today Church Street.
• The street is not yet paved.
• The Commercial Bank building - today housing John Wagner's National Agency, is not yet built.
• Will Triplett posed this photo as he had store owners stand in front of their businesses.
Stories Posted This Week
Thursday, August 13, 2026
- Families and customers create an oral history of memorable Bluffton businesses
- Local students travel to France, Monaco and Italy
- Move on Up: New drug for COVID-19 exposure
- Back to School Days at Bluffton Public Library
- 50 for 250 performances at Bluffton Public Library
- Community meal on August 20 at Bluffton Senior Center
Wednesday, August 12, 2026
- Obituary for centenarian Lois Jean Andreas
- Thomas "Tom" J. Basinger served in the U.S. Army
- President Sider to present Aug. 25 State of the University address
- August 10 council recap: Spending increase for Benroth bridge repairs
- MHCO requests zoning change for construction of senior duplexes
- WIP Wednesday: 1915 kitchen gets a charming DIY remodel
Tuesday, August 11, 2026
Monday, August 10, 2026
- Pirate girls tennis 2nd at Lima City tourney
- Professor Parquet on the passing of Don Nelson
- Bluffton historical society to discuss upcoming events, fundraising
- Bluffton Public Library hosts Mobile Health Clinic on Aug. 13
- 2026 PorchFest preview: Tommy Jenkins, Cat Dailey, Szabo Trio
- Chair massages offered at the Senior Center
- Bluffton Senior Center to host Spa Day