The JW Hugus company was the major retailer in NW Colorado from 1880 into the 1930’s. They opened a store in Rifle SW corner Railroad and 3rd in 1895. However, they did not stay for very long. Rifle merchants were quite strong and well established, so Hugus did not dominate here as they did elsewhere. They purchased the 30 by 90 frame Western Mercantile in 1895. Rebuilt it as a 75 by 75 brick store in 1901 only to have it burn to the ground and start the devastating Rifle fire of May 2, 1902

They rebuilt by year end 1902, but then sold to Rifle Production Credit Association and left in early 1910.

You can still see the vaults used from when it was a bank. There are three brick vaults in the building that still stand today along with the wooden beams that were used for construction in 1902. This buiding has seen many businesses throughout the years including pool halls, pawn shops, banks, offices, furniture and art galleries. Today the current owners Adam and Mandy Whitt have their clothing store in the space.

Historical Walking Tour

Welcome to the historical walking tour of 101 W 3rd Street, Rifle, CO. This tour will guide you through the rich history of this notable location and its evolution over the years.

• The JW Hugus Company Store Historical Context (1880-1930s): The JW Hugus Company was a significant retailer in
  Northwestern Colorado.
• Establishment in Rifle (1895): They opened a store on the southwest corner of Railroad and 3rd
  Street in Rifle. Initially, they purchased the 30 by 90 frame Wester Mercantile.
• Rebuilding and Tragedy (1901-1902): In 1901, the building was reconstructed as a 75 by 75 brick store. However, it burned down in the devastating Rifle fire on May 2, 1902.
• Reconstruction (1902): By the end of 1902, the store was rebuilt. Despite the successful rebuild, the JW Hugus Company sold the store to the Rifle Production Credit Association (PCA) and left in early 1910.

Architectural Features

Vaults and Wooden Beams: As you explore the building, look for the three brick vaults that were used when the building functioned as a bank. These vaults, along with the original wooden beams from the 1902 construction, are still intact and offer a glimpse into the building’s historical architecture.

The Building’s Evolution

Diverse Uses Over the Years: This building has housed a variety of businesses, including pool halls, pawn shops, banks, offices, furniture stores, and art galleries. Each tenant has contributed to the rich tapestry of the building’s history.

Current Owners and Use: Today, the building is home to a clothing store owned by Adam and Mandy Whitt. Their store continues the tradition of diverse business operations in this historic space

Take a moment to appreciate the blend of historical elements and modern usage as you walk through this storied location. The building at 101 W 3rd Street stands as a testament to the resilience and adaptability of Rifle’s commercial heritage.