Preserving History on Main Street
Community feedback helped shape the Main Street Promise Project, including a focus on preserving the history of downtown Vancouver. Historic features along Main Street were identified, restored and incorporated into the project so they can remain part of the streetscape.
Here are 7 historic features you can find along Main Street:
1. Vancouver Commerce Centre Sign — SE corner of E 8th & Main St.
The historic sign received a new foundation, and its internal lighting system was restored.
2. Reder Sidewalk Markers — NE corner of E 7th & Main St.
These terrazzo markers feature the name “REDER,” connecting today’s Main Street to Reder’s Department Drug Store, which once operated at 705 Main Street, as noted in The Evening Vancouver Columbian, published May 29, 1928.
3. Weigel Building Stairway — SE corner of E 8th & Main St.
This historic cast-iron and concrete stairway dates to 1932 and provides access to the basement of the Art Deco Weigel Building, designed by noted local architect Day W. Hilborn.
4. 1949 Concrete Mailbox Post — NW corner of W Mill Plain Blvd & Main St.
A concrete post that once supported a U.S. Mail collection box, dating to 1949.
5. Salvation Army Marker — NW corner of E 5th & Main St.
Installed in 1941, this bronze plaque honors the Salvation Army’s work in Vancouver.
6. J.C. Penney Terrazzo Entry — 806 Main St.
The original terrazzo flooring at the former J.C. Penney store remains at the main entrance. Inscribed with “J.C. Penney Co. Inc.,” the flooring connects the building to its past use and Main Street’s commercial history.
7. Kiggins Theatre Entryway — 1011 Main St.
The historic Kiggins Theatre retains its original ticket booth, surrounded by historic tile and terrazzo flooring.
