Historical Information

Historic Preservation

It seems there is always a restoration project in the works at Third Street Alliance! One of our current projects is to repair a shelter room that was damaged in a fire in 2004. The room had drop ceilings at that time which we hope to remove during the repairs. The original ceiling has decorative plaster moulding which we believe we can salvage. In one area of the room, that moulding is damaged. Without the resources to properly fix that area, we plan to smooth the area out as best we can in order to have it blend with the surrounding moulding. There is also significant damage to the lower wood mouldings in the area that the fire began. We plan to fix the damage to the hardwood floors ourselves, but have not yet decided how best to repair the lower moulding. Once all the repairs have been made, we plan to paint the room and re-open it as a room for a family in need of shelter. Photos of the room, as it is now, are available by clicking the historic preservation button at right.

If you or someone you know is able and willing to volunteer your services in this restoration, please give us a call at 610-258-6271. You can speak with Rick Thomas in maintenance or Judy Matthewson. Thank you for your support!

Our History

Third Street Alliance is housed in two historical buildings.

The main building is the Simon house, once the home of Easton silk merchant Herman Simon. It was begun in 1902 and construction took nearly two years to complete. Designed in the French chateau style by architect William Michler, the Simon House has an exterior of Indiana limestone with a granite base and a roof of Vermont red slate.

Visitors to the building are often struck by the elaborate woodcarving throughout the historic rooms. The dining room boasts an original mural by Taylor Rue and curved windows that were once the exterior of the building. Mr. Simon's library and den on the second floor reflect his pride in his German heritage. Each of these rooms has a magnificent fireplace and leather walls. The German influence is seen throughout the building with the exception of the front parlor, which was done in French style customary to wealthy Europeans.

The original building once had formal gardens that were lost when the adjacent Bixler Building was built in the 1920's. Additions in 1955 and 1971 added increased space for programs.

Touring the Simon Mansion

To take a walking tour, stop by during normal business hours and pick up a brochure. On weekends, the second floor is not accessible. If you would like to arrange for a guided or group tour, please call 610-258-6271.