Benitz Building

The Benitz Building was located at the corner of Walnut Street and Short Street (near present-day Commonwealth Avenue) in the old Eighth Ward. The building was erected in 1895 and is at the time of this photo housing "Acme Grocery & Fruit Company," which had been in business at this corner since 1872. Store owner Constantine Benitz and his three sons are in front of the door. Also in the scene is Rev. Koppernagle, first priest of St. Lawrence Church on Walnut Street. A horse drawn delivery wagon belonging to the store is at the curb. Short Street, this building, and Harrisburg's poor and rowdy 8th Ward in general was gradually demolished and replaced with government buildings and parking facilities that surround the State Capitol. Photo ID: D00182.