7-9 Stockbridge Street is a cornerstone of Springfield’s architectural heritage. Constructed in 1845, it is the third oldest building in Downtown Springfield, predated only by Old First Church (1819) and the Byers Block (1835). Along with Byers Block, it is one of only two brick commercial buildings downtown from that era.
Built for Elam Stockbridge, who developed Stockbridge Street as a commercial area beginning in 1839, the ground floor business was a grocery store beginning in the 1880s. In 1913, it was sold to Emil Guenther and brother-in-law Richard Handel, who operated Guenther & Handel's Deli there until 1972. The building was later renovated by Peter Zorzi of Studio One Architects in 1977. Zorzi was a then-active member of the Springfield Preservation Trust. The building hosted Trust board meetings in the 1970s-80s and has long been a pillar of the community.
A Preservation Restriction with the City of Springfield on exterior alterations was recorded in 1979, as owner Studio One had received a facade improvement grant from the city. The building was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1983.
However, years of neglect from subsequent owners left the building deteriorated and bank-foreclosed before the Springfield Preservation Trust (SPT) acquired it in April 2023. The Trust was able to puchase the property without a mortgage because of a significant gift from a long-time member.
The project is in active rehabilitation, with funding raised for exterior stabiliation, but continued need for structural stabilitation and interior restoration.
REHABILITATION STATUS
The Trust envisions a future where this historic resource is preserved and revitalized. Plans include:
First Floor: SPT office, library of Springfield architectural and historic preservation resources, and event space for lectures, photo exhibits, and community programs.
Second & Third Floors: Two rental apartments to contribute to downtown housing.
Thanks to Community Preservation Act (CPA) and Springfield Historic Preservation Trust Fund assistance awarded in 2023, we are replacing the leaking roof and stabilizing the brick façade.
However, further structural stabilization is urgently needed to prevent irreversible damage. Funds also have to be raised to rebuild the interior and complete the facade work with new windows, doors, and painting.
Urgent Structural Challenges
A structural evaluation by O’Reilly, Talbot, & Okun revealed severe foundation failures due to poor subsoil conditions. The building’s weight is unevenly distributed, causing significant floor settlement, particularly on the third floor. The stabilization plan includes:
- Installation of new support columns from the basement to the roof.
- Redistribution of weight through new beams and bearing points.
- Leveling of floors to restore safe occupancy.
Without intervention, this historic structure risks further deterioration, threatening both its architectural legacy and its viability as a community asset.
COMMUNITY IMPACT
Restoring 7-9 Stockbridge Street is about more than preserving bricks and mortar—it’s about revitalizing Downtown Springfield and strengthening its cultural identity. The project will:
- Preserve a Landmark: Safeguard a historic structure that embodies Springfield’s early architectural and commercial history.
- Create Housing: Provide two rental apartments in the heart of downtown.
- Establish a Community Hub: Serve as SPT’s headquarters, hosting lectures, tours, and preservation initiatives.
- Support Economic Revitalization: Complement adjacent renewal projects, including MGM Springfield, the Court Square development, and redevelopment at the Clocktower Building and abutting projects at 11-21 Stockbridge Street and the Colonial Block.
why support this project?
Springfield’s historic fabric is irreplaceable. Every building lost is a piece of the city’s history erased. By investing in 7-9 Stockbridge Street, we ensure that future generations can appreciate and benefit from its rich past. Additional funding for structural stabilization and interior restoration are essential to prevent further deterioration and to bring this landmark back to life as a vibrant community resource.
We urge you to support this project and join us in preserving Springfield’s heritage for generations to come. Your investment will have a lasting impact, protecting an irreplaceable part of downtown and demonstrating the power of historic preservation to shape a city’s future.
Please reach out to President Erica Swallow at president@springfieldpreservation.org to discuss your support of 7-9 Stockbridge Street.
