Commercial Opportunity

Recently improved historic fraternal lodge offers an investment opportunity in one of the oldest buildings in Vernon’s commercial district, dating to 1860. Zoned for mixed-used, the property includes 7,830 square feet across three floors.

Indiana Landmarks acquired the property in December 2023 and undertook multiple improvements including: selective masonry repointing with significant work at parapet level; new dimensional shingle roof and guttering; rebuilt and painted side cornice with custom fabricated corbels; new authentic custom wooden window sashes at 3rd floor level with salvaged antique window locks; some new window sashes on second floor; rebuilt 1st floor wooden floor system on the south side storefront space with repointed foundation stones; poured concrete foundation with perimeter drain and sump pump pit; and a new second floor floor system at the northeast corner of building at second level.

The building carries significant history as the first commercial structure to be constructed in Vernon’s commercial district following a devastating fire in 1859 that consumed the entire block along Pike Street across from the Jennings County Courthouse. Contractor Samuel Read, who also built the Jennings County Courthouse, constructed the “new”, 3-story, Odd Fellows Building, also referred to as Mt. Ida Lodge # 73, in 1860 and was one of two matching buildings that bookend the town’s one-block commercial district. The third floor housed the Odd Fellows Lodge rooms and the first floor was occupied by a tin shop. The three-story masonry building is a contributing structure in the Vernon Historic District, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Rehabilitation work is eligible for the Federal 20% Rehabilitation Tax Credit. The property will be sold with preservation covenants attached to deed requiring approval by Indiana Landmarks for exterior changes and interior rehab. Interior woodwork around doors and windows at the second and third stories to be retained in rehabilitation. See more photos on the realtor’s website and call to schedule your showing today!