Cradwick Building
Between 1889 and 1891, John Cradwick developed this large two-story block, possibly utilizing prior one story structures already present on the three-lot site.
Born in England in 1829, John Cradwick settled in the Winters area in 1875 where he farmed and established a brick-making business. Teaming with local contractor, Alex Ritchie, Cradwick utilized his brick masonry skills to erect this building.
Early businesses occupying the building included the Winters Bakery, the Phoenix General Store, and a saloon. In 1893, Cradwick offered 21 sleeping rooms upstairs. The building later became known as the Acme Hotel.
During the severe Winters' earthquake in 1892, the Cradwick Building sustained major damage. The city's only fatality occurred when bricks from the back of the building fell and killed Jeff Darby.
In 1998, the Cradwick Building was rehabilitated by a local investment group in partnership with the city of Winters, including substantial seismic retrofitting of the structure.
Marker is on Main Street west of Railroad Avenue, on the right when traveling west.
Courtesy hmdb.org
