Local Business Buys Property on the Marion Square

141 E. Third Street is a large two-story building near the northeast corner of the public square in Marion. The building has been vacant for several years and is remembered as a Montgomery Ward department store or later as the home of Beatniks Coffee Shop. The Riddle Family, owners of TJR Equipment Company, recently purchased the property.

However, Wards was not the first business to occupy this location. From 1865 to 1928, the building served as the headquarters for the Wigger Company. Founded by J.H. Wigger after the Civil War, the company initially sold harnesses and tanned leather. At that time, the firm was located on the same site it occupies today on the square's north side. Back then, transportation was primarily by wagon or horseback, which helped the company thrive, as goods were not readily available. The company's buyer would travel to Cincinnati by wagon to procure merchandise.

With the development of better roads, the company expanded to include buggies and changed its name to the Wigger Buggy and Harness Company. Under this name, it garnered recognition throughout the state until the death of J.H. Wigger. After that, his two sons, Kent and Harmon, took over the business for a few years until Kent Wigger bought out the entire company.

The Wigger Company also incorporated a Buick automobile agency, which was closed when sold to the new owners.

Montgomery Ward later occupied two floors plus the basement of the building. The building was remodeled, the interior redecorated, a steel ceiling was installed, and a radiation heating plant was added. The department store carried various goods, including dry goods, clothing, furniture, hardware, auto supplies, and many other items featured in the numerous catalogs sent to thousands of homes nationwide each year.

Sandborn Map https://www.loc.gov/resource/g4094mm.g4094mm_g024051887/?sp=2&st=image

Marion Chronicle, Friday, Aug. 10, 1928: New Firm to Open in Wigger Store

Ed. Note

Corrections:

141 E. Third

The Riddle Family, owners of TJR Equipment Company, recently purchased the property.