12. Opera Block

West Branch experienced a building boom beginning in 1895, during which several brick commercial blocks were constructed. The Opera Block, built by Charles Macomber, was the largest of these.

A shortage of bricks reportedly slowed the construction of this building (and many more) during this time of rapid growth and construction. This project prompted J.E. Steer lumberyard of south Main Street to invest in a 8,000 pound brick machine that was powered by two horses and could turn out 15,000 bricks a day!

The first floor of the Opera Block was divided into three spacious commercial rooms and top floor included a 500-seat opera house on the building's north end and a Masonic Lodge on the south end. The first storefront tenants includes Morris & Sons (hardware store), Model Clothing House (clothing store), and Dean, Ball & Co. (grocery store).

The opera house itself ignited strong feelings from the community with mixed emotions about having a performing arts theatre in town. Many felt the opera house, "like whiskey and gambling, were helping to unravel the moral fiber of local youth". Others defending that "nothing presented would be classed as unchaste or immodest" and over time the community came to respect the new institution. The theatre was often booked for piano and vocal recitals, fund-raisers and traveling drama troupes.

In 1986, the Opera Block underwent significant restoration to preserve its distinctive brick and iron façade. By that time the opera house and Masonic hall had been remodeled into apartments. Decades later, in 2020 a Main Street Iowa Challenge Grant provided funding for further preservation and restoration work, ensuring the building’s historic character would endure.

Today, this two-story brick structure remains the largest commercial building in West Branch, a lasting testament to the town’s growth and architectural heritage.