Baxter Store
After many years of experience working in the co-op store, J.R. Baxter, Sr., built this store in the mid-1880s. The store remains the best example of 19th-century commercial architecture in Spring City. It is unusual in the use of a wood false front while all exterior bearing walls are limestone. Baxter later teamed with Robert Blain and the store was known as Baxter and Blain Mercantile. Upon Baxter’s death, the store was acquired by his son-in-law, Claren Schofield, and called Schofield Merc.
Located at 190 North Main Street in Spring City, Utah
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This stone and wood frame facade building is the best surviving example of 19th century commercial architecture in Spring City. John R. Baxter, Sr.(1851-1930), worked in the Spring City Co-op store in the 1870’s. His first store was in his house that stood on this lot. Later the business became known as Baxter and Blain Mercantile. Upon Baxter’s death in 1930, the store was acquired by his son-in-law Claren Schofield and renamed the Schofield Mercantile. The Squirt signs painted on the north and south facades date from the 1940’s.(*)
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I think 1880’s is a bit early for this building because John R Baxter served a Scottish mission then came home and worked in the Co-op Store then married in 1887. He and his new wife then served as Manti Temple Workers after the Manti Temple was dedicated in 1888. Their first child was born in Manti after which they moved to Spring City. John R and family lived in a small home east of the store building then built the store and when he had enough money to the Baxter home on the west side of Main at 12 W. 200 North.