This month, the Webster Historic Preservation Commission named The Auction House at 150 Orchard Street as the site of the month. This honor recognizes the property’s rich historical significance and its enduring role in the community’s evolution. The Auction House, now a bustling center of various businesses with plans for future development, has a storied past that mirrors Webster’s growth and adaptation.
Early Beginnings: From Lumberyard to Taylor Rental Center
The history of The Auction House begins over a century ago when it first operated as a lumberyard. This early incarnation laid the foundation for its later transformations, serving the local community’s needs through different eras.
In November 1971, Ralph Henty opened a Taylor Rental Center at this location. Recognizing the growing trend of renting rather than owning, Henty’s center offered over 12,000 items for rent, ranging from champagne fountains to road rollers, tools, exercise equipment, and more. This became part of a network of over 175 Taylor Rental Centers nationwide, reflecting the increasing mobility and practical needs of the modern consumer.
In the late-1960s Gabler’s Decorating Center operated at 150 Orchard St., becoming a popular destination for home goods. Originally selling fabric for drapes, wallpaper, and similar products they opened a fashion department in 1970 selling dress patterns and fashion fabrics.
The New Look and Webster Tool & Die, Inc. also operated at 150 Orchard St. during the 1970s at different points during the decade.
1980s-1990s: A Hub of Business and Community Activities
Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, 150 Orchard Street continued to serve as a central hub for various community and business activities. The Taylor Rental Center remained a fixture, adapting to the times by expanding its inventory and services. In 1993, Dave Bardusch of C.E. Bardusch and Son, Inc., took ownership of the center. Bardusch brought fresh energy and competitive pricing to the business, ensuring its continued relevance and success.
The property also played host to several community events and smaller businesses. It was a place where local residents could rent everything from camping gear to party supplies, making it an essential part of daily life in Webster.
2000s: The Birth of Ann & Co. Auction Gallery
On July 7, 2000, Ann Marszalek opened Ann & Co. Auction Gallery at 150 Orchard Street. This 8,000-square-foot space, once a lumberyard, was transformed into a vibrant auction gallery. Marszalek, an accredited appraiser and licensed auctioneer, brought her expertise and passion for antiques and collectibles to the gallery. The venue featured regular auctions, a 1950s style café, parking for 200 cars, and storage facilities, attracting a diverse clientele and becoming a beloved local institution.
Marszalek’s involvement in high-profile events like the “Antiques Road Show” in Rochester underscored the gallery’s reputation and her professional acumen. The gallery became a place where history and commerce intertwined, offering a unique service to the community.
Present and Future: A Dynamic Business Hub
Today, The Auction House continues to be a dynamic business hub, housing a variety of enterprises. The historic building is owned by Ryan Ricketts and Kim Cimino, operators of A Cleaner Image, which offers a wide-range of residential and commercial cleaning services. Sorella Salon Suites, owned by Dana and Nikki Sorella also operates on the first floor. The historical significance of the space and adaptive reuse have made it a model of preservation and innovation. Future plans include the development of lofts and additional office space, ensuring that the property will continue to evolve and serve the community in new and exciting ways.
Timeline of Key Events
- Early 1900s: The property at 150 Orchard Street functions as a lumberyard.
- November 1971: Ralph Henty opens a Taylor Rental Center, offering a wide range of rental items.
- 1993: Dave Bardusch of C.E. Bardusch and Son, Inc. acquires the Taylor Rental Center, modernizing its operations and expanding its inventory.
- July 7, 2000: Ann Marszalek opens Ann & Co. Auction Gallery, transforming the space into an auction venue with a 1950s style café and extensive parking.
- 2020s: The property is owned by Ryand Ricketts and Kim Cimino and continues to house multiple businesses, with plans for lofts and additional office space in development.
A Unique Story of Community and Commerce
The story of The Auction House at 150 Orchard Street is a testament to Webster’s resilience and adaptability. From its early days as a lumberyard to its current status as a thriving business hub, the property has continually evolved to meet the community’s needs. Each transformation has added a new layer to its rich history, making it an important landmark in Webster.
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