Anaconda Historic District, Anaconda Standard Building, 219-221 Main Street, Anaconda, Deer Lodge County, MT

Significance: The Standard building was erected by Marcus Daly in 1887 to serve as the home for the Anaconda Standard newspaper, first published in September of that year. The original three-story building consisted of dressed stone and brick, with an elegant facade of fluted cast iron columns at the first level and large brick arched windows at the second story. Sections of the original windows, now brick infilled, remain visible on the south side of the building facing Third Street. The oak finished interior offices of the Standard building originally housed the editorial offices and press room for the newspaper on the ground floor. Additional second floor offices were leased to the Water Company, the Rocky Mountain Telegraph Company and the Electric Light Company. A broad hall also at this level served as the official City Council chambers prior to the erection of City Hall in 1895. Under the subsequent ownership of the Anaconda Copper Mining Company, the Standard Building continued to be used as office space. The roof line and facade were altered in the 1941's. By 1950 the building had been completely remodeled to provide recreational facilities for the Anaconda Company Employee's Club, formally opened on September 24th that year. The existing tile facade at the west and south sides date from the 1950 renovation. In 1964, the Standard Building was purchased by the local B.P.O.E. and again remodeled to suit this organization functions. The Elks Club occupies the building today.
Survey number: HABS MT-53-J
Building/structure dates: 1887-1889 Initial Construction
Building/structure dates: after. 1940- before. 1950 Subsequent Work
Building/structure dates: 1964 Subsequent Work