This week’s photo is from Davis. It shows the Joseph Versi & Sons Building and The Davis Hardware and Furniture Co.
Joseph Versi, from Austria, was a tailor and owned buildings on William Avenue from the Corner of Fourth Street to the Davis Hardware and Furniture Co. He had 2 sons by his first wife and 2 sons by his second wife. The Pennsylvania House was a well-know boarding house in the Versi Building. Part of the building was used for a poolroom and barbershop. A Men’s Clothing store was on the first floor and operated by several folks. According to a caption on the card it was also Versi Saloon in 1900. It is difficult to see without a magnifier bu, there is a sign on the corner of Fourth that reads “Clothing House”. I am not sure if it goes with the building on the corner of Fourth and William or if it points the way to the Garment Factory on Thomas Avenue. Ideas or comments, contact Tim Turner (304) 478-3389.