The Union Block

The Union Block is a well-known historic building located at 57 South Main Street in the small town of Brigham City Utah. This historic monument was completed in 1892 and has undergone years of remodeling and expansion. It has been preserved for its beauty and magnificent features. Locally produced brick was used to construct the building.

The building was established after the Mormon Church-sponsored Co-op began to wane in the 1880’s. The Co-op was a well-managed social cooperative that dominated the economy. Soon after the closure of the Co-op, there were many businesses that were established. The Union Block was one of the first commercial buildings established during this period. This is one of the few buildings that are still standing today and has made it eligible for National Register Designation.

The Union Block was a joint effort between Robert K. Wilson, the first saloon keeper in Brigham City and Charles W. Knudson, who created his own commercial produce business. They shared the building to suit both of their needs

Knudson previously purchased the land south of Wilson’s saloon and persuaded Wilson to go in with him on the development of the Union Block building. Wilson would take the North corner of the building while the Knudson brothers would take the South corner of the building a year later. In 1907 the Knudson brothers discontinued their business and a pharmacy replaced it.

In 1912 Wilson sold his part of the building to the Hanson Mercantile Company at which point they occupied the entire first floor of the building. The offices on the second floor were then converted to residential apartments, with approximately 3-4 rooms in each living quarters.

Later, in 1929 the Union Block was expanded and became the fourth JC Penney store in America. This was the longest tenant in the building, remaining there until November 1986. The building later remained vacant until 1989 when a man by the name of Richard Van Dyke leased the building from the former owner Ricks Knudson. He opened a game room and arcade called “The Union Block Sports Center.” It later became a men’s clothing store until the year of 2016.

In past years, the building had become unoccupied. In 2018, the city officials of Brigham City had talked about demolishing the building, but the issue was further disputed. There were many residents who disagreed with this idea, including the current owners, David, and Donna Walker. The Walkers purchased the property to save the establishment.

The Walkers then approached some investors who are currently assisting them with the renovation of the building. Since the building was established in a designated Opportunity Zone, the investors were able to move unrealized capital gains into a Qualified Opportunity Fund to help with the costs to restore the building.

In 2019 it became a furniture and home décor store called “Cosignology.” This local store is still operating at present.

For centuries, this building has undergone many changes and has become an impassioned memory in the lives of many families and individuals within the community. The Union block stands as a reminder of the devoted individuals who have contributed their own efforts to this fine establishment. The Walkers continue to preserve the building and plan to keep it a legacy to remember.