Since the late 19th century and throughout the 20th century, the stone building has been an integral part of the Galva community. The two-story natural limestone building (referred to as the only skyscraper in Galva) was built in the early 1880s. It measured 100 feet by 25 feet and at one time housed a doctor’s office, a photo gallery, a roller rink and a general merchandise store; today, this concept would be considered a state-of-the-art modern mini-mall.
The roller rink on the top floor of the building provided entertainment for the children as well as a City Hall for socials, dances, and various community activities. The Galva skyscraper burned in 1912, leaving only the four stone walls. The main floor was rebuilt, but they did not rebuild the second story.
The musuem displays artifacts from Empire, Vern’s Barber Shop, Warren Petroleum Plant, Home Telephone Company, military uniforms extending from World War I through the Vietnam Era, records of the county schools and various other precious items of Galva’s historic past.
