Here’s an exciting opportunity for anyone that has ever dreamed of owning a historic firehouse. Hook & Ladder No. 8 Firehouse, located at 174 Chicago Street, has hit the market.
Located in the Old First Ward, and close to the Buffalo River and Canalside, 174 Chicago Street is a real stunner on the outside, which could lead to endless possibilities on the inside. The circa 1900 structure boasts a whopping 5,928 SF of usable space.
From the listing:
174 Chicago Street stands as a distinguished landmark within a neighborhood undergoing some of the largest redevelopment projects in Buffalo. Built in 1895 and designed by the firm of Boughton & Johnson, in Neoclassical style, the structure remains a testament to Gilded Age craftsmanship. The property has the authentic historic firehouse character, featuring robust masonry and architectural details that are increasingly rare. A total of 5,928 SF above grade and basement space. The site offers unique reuse as café, brewery, creative offices, residential living spaces and a workshop with 3 phase power.
It is interesting to note that there was once a peaked-roof 3rd floor that was removed at one point, according to Preservation Ready Sites. The site even posted an image from 1908 depicting what the intact structure once looked like. From what I understand, although the peaked-roof was removed, the building appears to be structurally sound. Seeing that it is primely located, this would make for a wonderful investment property. Hopefully a new owner will do something constructive with it. It would certainly be nice to see a restaurant or café, as Buffalo does not have an eatery or coffee shop situated within the walls of a historic firehouse.
There was once a proposal to build a brewery and restaurant at the historic firehouse at 310 Jersey Street, near Kleinhans Music Hall, but unfortunately that project was squashed by NIMBYs. I don’t think that anyone would have an issue if someone wanted to build out a pub at 174 Chicago Street…