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Get ready, Fort Wayne! Crispy Cones, the innovative dessert shop famous for its hand-rolled dough cones, is now open with its first Indiana location! Located at 5129 Illinois Rd, this exciting new spot is now open. Owned and operated by Fort Wayne natives, Julie and Doug Carroll, with their daughter Aryana taking on the role of operations manager, this local gem promises to deliver a deliciously unique dessert experience that you won't want to miss! Crispy Cones offers a delightful twist on traditional soft-serve desserts, featuring cones that are made fresh and grilled rotisserie style. This unique preparation method not only enhances the flavor but also creates a perfectly crunchy exterior that pairs wonderfully with the creamy fillings. The concept, inspired by a beloved dessert trend popular in European countries, originated with Jeremy Carlson, the founder of Crispy Cones. After serving on a missions trip in the Czech Republic for two years, Jeremy was captivated by the sight of vendors making pastry cones filled with fruit on the side of the road. When he returned to the U.S., he pursued his vision of launching a business around this concept, starting by selling fruit-filled cones from a tent. After his first year, he upgraded to a trailer, adding ice cream options, and in 2021, he opened his first storefront in Logan, Utah. The Carrolls became interested in owning a Crispy Cones franchise after watching the business on Shark Tank. Following the episode's airing in March 2023, Doug signed up to be considered for ownership. After persistent follow-ups, the Carrolls received the exciting news in August 2024 that they had been accepted. They have purchased options for three franchise locations, with the first opening in Fort Wayne and the other two planned for the northern side of the Indianapolis area within the next 12 months. Crispy Cones provides endless customization options, making it a versatile treat for ice cream and dessert lovers. Customers can choose from an array of creamy spreads, fruits, and sauces, creating a mouthwatering dessert experience that caters to individual tastes.  Whether you're looking for a sweet treat to beat the summer heat or a fun outing with friends and family, Crispy Cones aims to deliver an unforgettable dessert experience!

In the realm of residential and commercial fencing, Pinnacle Fence is taking a significant leap forward with the impending launch of their new software, Fenfo, designed specifically for contractors. Fenfo is set to be released in two phases, the first phase targets contractors and will be available by October 2025. This pioneering app promises to streamline the quoting process, making it easier than ever for contractors to provide accurate estimates to their customers. As part of this initial rollout, contractors will have the opportunity to download Fenfo for a monthly subscription fee ranging from $25 to $35. The onboarding process, which takes only 15 minutes, will equip contractors with the knowledge they need to effectively implement the app into their business operations. During this onboarding session, users will learn how to input their specific pricing structures, ensuring that every quote they generate is tailored to their business model and the needs of their clients. One of the standout features of this innovative software is its ability to utilize satellite imagery. Contractors will be able to pull up a detailed satellite image of a customer's property and draw a precise line indicating where the fence will be installed. After determining the desired fencing style, the app generates an accurate quote instantly, allowing contractors to provide their customers with immediate, transparent pricing. Cristian Alvarez, Co-Owner of Pinnacle Fence, shared insights into the motivation behind the development of Fenfo. “There are similar software solutions out there, but they aren't the greatest, and they are incredibly expensive. The idea is that we’re offering a software that is seamless, straightforward, and scalable, but at an affordable price. It doesn’t matter if you’re a big shop or a one-man crew; each can utilize the software just as well as the other,” Alvarez explained. This commitment to affordability and accessibility is a game-changer for contractors in the fencing industry. Many existing software solutions are not only cumbersome but also come with hefty price tags that can deter smaller companies or solo entrepreneurs. Pinnacle Fence's new app levels the playing field, allowing contractors of all sizes to benefit from technology that enhances efficiency and accuracy in their quoting process. As the launch date approaches, contractors can look forward to a tool that will transform the way they do business, enabling them to serve their customers better and more efficiently.  By providing an affordable and user-friendly solution, Pinnacle Fence is addressing a critical need for accurate and efficient quoting tools, empowering contractors of all sizes to enhance their service delivery. The use of satellite imagery and instant quote generation not only simplifies the quoting process but also fosters transparency and trust with clients. As the first phase of Fenfo prepares for release, contractors can anticipate a significant boost in their operational efficiency and customer satisfaction. With this strategic move, Pinnacle Fence is not just leading the charge in modernizing the fencing industry; they are also reinforcing their commitment to supporting contractors in their pursuit of excellence.   As they prepare for the next phase of Fenfo, targeting consumers, the excitement surrounding Pinnacle Fence’s innovative solutions is sure to grow, making it an exciting time for both contractors and customers in the fencing landscape. Once phase two is ready to launch this winter, we will share more information about what consumers can expect from this software.

The original building that covered the northwest block of West Berry and South Harrison was built in the 1880s. The three-story building was a mixed-use commercial and office building and housed many tenants during its tenure, from drug stores and soda shops to law firms, music studios, and jewelers. For several years, Fort Wayne-founded Meyer Drug Company had a storefront here during the first half of the 1900s, along with several other locations throughout Indiana. The original building burned down in February 1967, resulting in a loss of $150,000 and the closing of the iconic Red Garter Cocktail Lounge, which you can see in the historic photo. The 202 W Berry corner remained a parking lot until a freshly built six-story building was completed in 1975 and still stands on at the corner to this day.  Since the 70s, 202 Metro has grown to an 8-story building and has housed various law firms, CPAs, banks, and other small office and retail users. In 1980, Sturges, Griffin, Trent & Co (now Sturges Property Group) moved in on the sixth floor and also took over maintenance duties for the building. Forty-five years later, Sturges Property Group still calls 202 Metro home, and affiliate company, Maintenance Management, still handles the building's maintenance!   This building underwent a   $25 million renovation  in 2018 and 2019 to become a first-class mixed-use tower. The top two floors of the building were completely gutted to develop 10 luxury condos, and the street-level bank downsized to make room for restaurant and retail spaces. The remaining floors were remodeled and updated into modern office spaces.   Improvements also included a complete overhaul of the building's infrastructure, including mechanical systems, elevators, windows, roof, building access, and streetscape, which was all completed in partnership with   Sturges Development Group .   "You could just see this [building] was very tired… the windows, the concrete, just needed to be restored. We put together a nice, economical plan to replace the window system and totally restore the outside of the building." -Brad Sturges, interview with WANE15 (2018)   The stately building is currently home to Sturges Property Group, Nexus Technology Partners, TI Source Project Management, GreenWay Bank, Katz, Sapper & Miller, and Pizza Hut operations offices, among many others.   Ground-level storefronts are currently available, along with office space on the second and third floors. Contact Sturges Property Group at 260-424-8448 to learn more or view the listing here. (Historic image credit used in line-up:   Indiana Album  and The Johnson Brothers Sign Company Collection)   Story written by Kendall Heiser & Amy Schuldt of Sturges Property Group

Eggster Grab and Go Café is excited to announce its grand opening on Friday, August 29, 2025, from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Located at 236 E Wayne St, Fort Wayne, IN 46802, inside Cottage Flowers, this family-owned café promises a warm, community-focused atmosphere with a 90s music vibe in Downtown Fort Wayne. Guests attending the grand opening can enjoy FREE pancakes during the event. The festivities will include a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 9:00 AM, marking the official launch of the café. Eggster Café will serve an array of breakfast items, including breakfast burritos, breakfast bowls, and mini pancakes in three delicious flavors; Classic, Whip & Drizzle, and Meat & Maple. The menu offers a variety of coffee drinks, from brewed and iced to flavored cappuccinos. Refreshers and numerous other snack items ensure there is something for everyone, making it the perfect stop for a quick grab-n-go or a comfortable dine-in experience. Committed to serving the community, Eggster Grab and Go Café offers catering services for meetings and events, along with fundraising collaborations for schools and corporations. The Eggster team is excited to assist with event setups and provide on-site food service, ensuring every local gathering is a delightful and memorable experience. Mark your calendars and bring the whole family because this grand opening celebration is one you won’t want to miss! Stay in the loop for all the latest updates and exclusive offers by following them on Facebook (@EggsterCafe) and Instagram (@EggsterLLC). Have questions or want to place a phone order? Give them a call at 260-515-1627 or conveniently order online at eggsterbreakfast.square.site .  Eggster Grab and Go Café is set to become a vibrant addition to the Fort Wayne community, blending delicious food with a nostalgic atmosphere. The grand opening on August 29th is not just an event; it’s an opportunity for families and friends to come together, enjoy free pancakes, and celebrate the launch of a café that truly values its customers. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a cozy meal with loved ones, Eggster promises to deliver a delightful experience with a menu designed for everyone. Be part of this exciting day and discover your new favorite spot in town! Don’t forget to connect with Eggster on social media for the latest updates and special offers. Want to learn more about how Eggster got started and the family behind the brand? Check out the article below: Advertisements:

Heartland Cavalier Connection Inc. is thrilled to announce the Tails & Treats Carnival , a fun-filled afternoon for dogs and their humans, taking place on Saturday, August 16, 2025, from 1 to 4 p.m. at Cedar Canyon Elementary . This dog-centric event features low-cost microchips, pet ID tags, and nail trims, as well as activities, demonstrations, shopping, and adoptable dogs from local rescues. Admission is just $5 per dog —humans get in free! Attendees can enjoy : • 20+ local dog-friendly vendors • Meet & greet adoptable dogs from area rescues • Live activities & dog sport demonstrations • Sweets on the Street food truck • Free pup cups for the pooches • $5 custom pet ID tags • $10 dog nail trims • $20 microchipping   “This is the perfect opportunity to treat your dog to a special activity while supporting local rescues and pet-friendly businesses,” said Trista Miller, Founder of Heartland Cavalier Connection . “We’re excited to bring the community together in celebration of all things canine!” Whether you’re a lifelong dog lover, looking to adopt, or just want to enjoy a summer afternoon with some furry friends, Tails & Treats Carnival is the place to be. About Heartland Cavalier Connection Inc. Heartland Cavalier Connection is a Fort Wayne-based nonprofit dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. Learn more at heartlandcavalierconnection.org

Exciting news for the cryptocurrency community! On Thursday, July 17, 2025, the U.S. House made a significant leap into the future by passing the cryptocurrency bills that are set to reshape the financial landscape. These bills will ultimately make the market framework of Cryptocurrency. What Bill Passed and is Heading to the President: The Genius Act creating a regulatory framework for U.S.-dollar-pegged cryptocurrency, tokens known as stablecoins, sending the bill to President Donald Trump. This should also empower corporations to launch their own stablecoins and cryptocurrencies, fostering innovation and competition in the digital currency space. While initial discussions highlighted some concerns—especially regarding provisions related to Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs)—the enthusiasm behind this act showcases a strong commitment to corporate freedom in the crypto realm. What Passed Billsare heading to the Senate: The Clarity Act , which provides much-needed guidelines for cryptocurrencies. This act aims to establish a clearer regulatory framework, ensuring that businesses and investors have a solid understanding of their roles within the evolving digital economy. It's a major step towards legitimizing and stabilizing the cryptocurrency market. Anti CBDC Act stands strong in its mission to prevent the Federal Reserve from launching a CBDC, emphasizing the importance of financial privacy. This legislation aims to protect individuals from government surveillance, advocating for a decentralization of economic power. While there have been discussions regarding financial privacy and government control that delayed these bills, their passage marks a pivotal moment in the U.S. approach to cryptocurrency. The excitement surrounding these new regulations reflects a broader recognition of the need for innovation and privacy in our financial systems. Cryptocurrency is a type of digital or virtual currency that uses cryptography for security. It operates on decentralized technology called blockchain, which records transactions across a network of computers. This ensures transparency and immutability. Popular examples include Bitcoin, Ethereum, XRP, and Cardano. Cryptocurrencies enable secure peer-to-peer transactions, cater to a wide range of applications, and are often seen as a revolutionary shift in the financial landscape. This is a thrilling time for the cryptocurrency landscape in the U.S., and we can't wait to see how these bills will transform the industry! Hold on, it’s just beginning, learn more at the Fort Wayne Business Journal!

In the heart of Fort Wayne, a unique café has breathed fresh life into the breakfast scene. Eggster Grab & Go Café, founded by the husband-and-wife team of David and Yan Wall, is not just a place to grab a meal; it's a family endeavor fueled by passion, determination, and a keen eye for opportunity. With a commitment to serving quality breakfast options that cater to busy lifestyles, the Walls have crafted a café experience that is both convenient and satisfying. Today we’ll explore the inspiring journey of Eggster, from its initial launch at a local Fort Wayne farmers market to its recent expansion into a brick-and-mortar location. Founded by David and Yan Wall, Eggster Grab & Go Café has quickly established a loyal following in the Fort Wayne community. David, a seasoned entrepreneur with a diverse educational background, including an Associate of Applied Science in Electronics Engineering Technology from ITT Technical Institute, and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Indiana Wesleyan University, is actively paving the way for the café's success. Alongside his role in running Eggster, David works as an insurance specialist for a faith-based mental health organization, allowing him the flexibility to support both his family and his business. Yan Wall acts as the café's general manager, overseeing daily operations and guiding their expanding team. With a degree in education and a bachelor's degree in business focusing on finance, she plays a vital role in both the front-of-house and back-of-house operations. Their daughter contributes to the café as an employee, while their son assists wherever needed, reinforcing the fact that Eggster is a genuinely family-owned and operated business. The Walls' motivation for starting Eggster stemmed from a desire for a fresh start and a more purposeful venture. David shared “We’ve had experience in several industries over the years, including retail, wholesale, and industrial work. This time, we took a step back to really reflect on what we wanted out of life and how business would fit into that vision. We did extensive research to understand which types of businesses not only survived but thrived during and after the pandemic, and why. We combined those findings with our own lifestyle goals and landed on food service as the right fit. We also felt a strong internal push to take action. We needed to generate income to cover living expenses and didn’t want to sit idle waiting for the “perfect” opportunity. Job hunting didn’t feel like the right move for us given everything we’d been through, and in truth, our heart was in entrepreneurship all along.”  On December 17, 2022, Eggster made its debut at the YLNI Farmers Market. Despite the chilly weather, David fondly remembers the warm reception from the community, which fueled their passion for delivering hot, fast, and satisfying breakfast options. Their core menu features an array of breakfast burritos and bowls, as well as made-to-order mini pancakes available in 3 fun varieties: Classic Mini, Whip & Drizzle, and Meat & Maple. Coupled with fresh-brewed coffee, flavored iced coffee, and refreshing tea beverages, Eggster's offerings are perfectly designed for those on the go. Since their launch in 2022, Eggster has primarily operated at the YLNI Farmers Market throughout both the winter and summer seasons. Their consistent presence at the market has allowed them to build a loyal customer base and refine their menu offerings. This year, they have taken a chance at expansion by testing the waters at two additional Sunday markets, stepping beyond their Saturday foundation. During this expansion exploration, a pivotal moment arose when David learned from another food vendor about a unique opportunity to rent a small space at Cottage Flowers, a local flower shop conveniently located at the intersection of E Wayne St and S Barr St, just near their Saturday farmers market. Intrigued by the potential, David quickly inquired about the space and visited the location that same day. When asked why he felt the space was a good fit, he stated, "It felt like the right next step with built-in foot traffic and a chance to build something more permanent while staying connected to our market roots." On May 27, 2025, Eggster Grab & Go Café officially opened its first physical location within Cottage Flowers. David expressed that from the very beginning, Eggster and Cottage Flowers have developed a strong working relationship and enjoy collaborating on new ideas together.  While the transition from the farmers market to a physical location has brought about many exciting changes, it hasn't come without its challenges. David noted, "The biggest change has been adjusting to the difference in foot traffic. At the YLNI Farmers Market, one of the largest in the state, there’s a steady stream of people every Saturday during the summer. In contrast, running a brick-and-mortar café outside of that market requires much more effort in advertising and outreach just to let people know we’re here.” The café is open Monday through Saturday from 8 AM to 2 PM, a schedule the Walls designed to accommodate breakfast and brunch crowds while aligning with the hours of Cottage Flowers. At this new location, their aim is to experiment with the open market, learn from the experience, adapt, and grow from there. When we asked David about his vision for the future of the business, he shared, “We’re taking things step by step. Right now, we see catering as the next natural phase of growth for Eggster. It allows us to serve larger groups while keeping our menu and operations streamlined. We’re also passionate about giving back and hope to do more for the community by supporting fundraising efforts and partnerships with local organizations. When it comes to events, we’re always open to the right opportunities, but we’ve learned that people value consistency, and so do we. We’ve built a loyal following, and we want to serve our customers by being reliably in the same place during our operating hours. Looking further down the road, we’ve definitely thought about the possibility of opening more locations in the future. For now, we're focused on learning, refining, and building a strong foundation.” Grand Opening Coming Soon Eggster Grab & Go Café will be hosting a grand opening celebration: Friday August 29th from 8am - 2pm with a ribbon cutting at 9am! 236 E Wayne St, 46804 At Cottage Flowers Make sure to come out and celebrate this new breakfast spot in downtown Fort Wayne! Eggster Grab & Go Café represents a remarkable journey driven by passion, resilience, and a strong commitment to the Fort Wayne community. As David and Yan Wall navigate the exciting transition from farmers market to brick-and-mortar café, they remain focused on adapting and growing while fostering their family-oriented approach. With a vision to engage more deeply with the community through catering, events, and partnerships, along with hopes for continued expansion, Eggster is poised for a bright future. For inquiries about catering, fundraising, or wholesale services, feel free to call (260) 450-6411 and ask for Dave to discuss your options. Eggster Grab & Go Café invites everyone to stop by, explore their tasty menu, enjoy a delicious breakfast, and try a refreshing drink. Experience the friendly atmosphere that makes Eggster a wonderful addition to Fort Wayne!

Are you a passionate pet owner or simply love animals? Don’t miss the Fort Wayne Pet Resource Expo by Fuzz Friends! This engaging event is designed for everyone who shares a love for furry friends and aims to foster connections between pet owners and local pet professionals. Event Highlights: - Expert Interactions : Meet top local trainers, groomers, boarding facilities, pet sitters, waste scoopers, and rescue organizations. This is your chance to gain insights directly from the experts and ask all those burning questions about pet care. - Premium Products : Explore a wide variety of premium pet products tailored to enhance your pet's life. From food to toys, you’ll find everything you need for your beloved companion. - Special Offers : Many participating businesses will offer exclusive discounts and promotions just for expo attendees. - Adoptable Pets : Meet furry friends looking for their forever homes! This is a great opportunity to adopt a pet and bring joy to your family. - Free Pup Cups : Treat your pooch to a delightful complimentary pup cup, ensuring they have a sweet day out too! - Photo Opportunities : Capture memorable moments with your furry friends at the special photo ops. - Raffles and Goodies : Don’t miss your chance to win fantastic prizes! Plus, the first 100 attendees will receive reusable goodie bags. Event Details: Date : Sunday August 3rd, 2025 Time : 12p-4p Location : The Venue at Charlie’s Place- 4201 N Wells Street Fort Wayne, IN 46808 Tickets:  - Available online or at the door for just $5, which includes one raffle ticket.  - Children under 10 are admitted free. Bring your friends, both furry and human, and enjoy a day filled with fun, learning, and community spirit! For more information about the event or to purchase tickets visit Fuzz Friends event page here: https://www.facebook.com/share/1By29bXdZx/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Summary: Sturges Property Group was founded in 1975 as Sturges, Griffin, Trent & Co. as a small commercial real estate firm with big ambitions . Over the last 50 years, it has evolved into one of the region’s most respected commercial real estate groups. 2025 Is a Milestone 2025 is a milestone year for Sturges Property Group: fifty years of service, growth, and meaningful impact across Fort Wayne and Northern Indiana.   The company began as a small firm with big ambitions, and it has evolved into one of the region’s most respected commercial real estate groups—founded on trust, shaped by innovation, and driven by a connection to the community. 1975-2025 Logo’s of the Company Sturges Property Group was originally established as Sturges, Griffin, Trent & Co. by three leaders ready to help Fort Wayne grow. Barry Sturges, Lowell Griffin, and Gary Trent all had a clear goal: to offer thoughtful, strategic real estate services while actively contributing to Fort Wayne’s development. That goal quickly took form with humble beginnings. Left (Gary Trent), Middle (Barry Sturges), Right (Lowell Griffin), Founded and Started Sturges Property Group. Sturges and Griffin started conducting business in 1975 with one employee who doubled as the receptionist and assistant. Everyone had to share the singular office telephone to conduct daily business. Trent officially joined in 1978 to help build the client base and strengthen their brokerage services. In 1980, the firm made a move into the 202 Metro building at Berry and Harrison Streets in downtown Fort Wayne. At the time, the building’s occupancy was just 11%, but the team saw potential where others saw risk. That optimism in Fort Wayne’s future still guides the firm today, and 45 years later still proudly call 202 Metro home. The 1980s and 1990s saw rapid growth. Founder Barry Sturges collaborated with Greg Petras in 1982 to establish Maintenance Management, a full-service commercial property maintenance firm that remains operational 24/7 to this day. In 1990, Sturges Development Group was created to lead residential and commercial development projects across the region. This creation would allow the firm to grow beyond brokerage and property management and have a direct hand in shaping Fort Wayne’s physical landscape. The mid-90s brought leadership transitions, including the passing of founder Gary Trent. This marked a significant moment in the company’s history and reinforced the importance of upholding the values on which the company was founded. Shortly after, co-founder Lowell Griffin departed from the firm. Barry Sturges continued on and in 1997 entered a 21-year affiliation with global real estate giant CB Richard Ellis (CBRE). This change signaled hope in a time of loss, and significantly expanded the firm’s reach, client base, and IT resources. The 2000s were a time of diversification. Barry Sturges brought his son, Brad Sturges, into the firm. Having graduated from Colorado State University with a degree in finance, Brad would eventually become a partner and then the President of the company, helping to usher in a new generation with fresh ideas and forward-thinking leadership. A new technology division, called UCS, was launched in the late 2000s to expand technological services, like networking assistance, building access control, managed IT services, and infrastructure support for commercial clients. UCS was rebranded to Nexus Technology Partners in the mid-2010s, and their addition solidified Sturges’ role as a fully integrated real estate partner, capable of supporting properties long after a deal is done. In 2018, Sturges took another bold leap by ending their CBRE affiliation and rebranded to become Sturges Property Group, a change that signified new growth and potential. This strategic shift allowed the company to return to their roots, refocusing on what matters most: their clients, the region, and their values. Since that transition, Sturges has leaned into innovation and adaptability. TI Source Project Management was launched in 2020 to oversee tenant improvements and construction services. In 2024, Sturges expanded again with the acquisition of Mann’s MEP, an established mechanical, electrical, and plumbing company. Mann’s integrated perfectly with an already established family of companies and bolstered their maintenance service offerings. This brings us to 2025, where Sturges Property Group is celebrating 50 years in business. Over the last 50 years, Sturges Property Group has played a significant role in shaping some of Northern Indiana’s most successful commercial and residential developments, including Southtown Centre, Keystone Industrial Park, Inverness Lakes, and Dupont Business & Medical Park. But Sturges measures their success not by square footage, but by the relationships they’ve built and their passion for progress. While reflecting on the last 50 years, Barry Sturges, stated, “I’m proud of the growth, resilience, and integrity we’ve maintained through decades of change. We’ve built lasting relationships, shaped the local real estate landscape, and stayed true to our commitment to service and results. It’s been a journey of constant learning and adaptation, guided by a strong team and a clear vision. Looking back, I’m grateful—for the trust of our clients, the dedication of our people, and the chance to make a lasting impact on our community.” Sturges Property Group’s leadership team—Founder and CEO Barry Sturges and President Brad Sturges—continues to champion a people-first approach to real estate. The company culture remains collaborative, entrepreneurial, and grounded in the same community-focused values that have guided us since the very beginning. As a team, Sturges has celebrated achievements large and small. From winning community-based awards to surpassing $100 million in transactions, every success has reflected the dedication of their team and the trust of their clients. The future of Sturges Property Group is as promising as its past. Senior Broker, Neal Bowman, summed it up perfectly by saying, "As we look forward to the future, this anniversary is not just a celebration of where we’ve been — it’s a renewed promise for what’s ahead." Sturges Property Group looks forward to what’s in store for Fort Wayne and Northern Indiana and are grateful to always improve upon the community that continues to partner with them. Written by Kendall Heiser with Sturges Property Group

Today, we’re diving into some of the rich history of The Landing, Fort Wayne’s first business district and a bustling hub of commerce, travel, and entertainment for over 200 years!   Between the 1830s and 1870s, work began to dig the fifty-foot-wide Wabash & Erie Canal through Fort Wayne. The northeast corner of Columbia and Harrison Streets, where Nawa’s Bison Deck is today, once held the Orbison Basin, a boatyard lagoon for canal boats to dock and turn around. The development of the freight and passenger railways quickly replaced water transport nationwide, and the canal became defunct. Nickel Plate Railroad purchased sections of the canal and began to fill it with dirt throughout the 1870s and 1880s to make way for new tracks. The first train arrived in Fort Wayne in 1881.   When the Orbison Basin was filled in around 1876, Charles Bash came along in the early-1880s to develop a block of three buildings on that corner—a six-story centerpiece flanked by two four-story structures. The Bash Block of 126-136 W Columbia Street was a statement of Romanesque Revival architecture. Architect Charles Kendrick designed the building with limestone Tuscan pilasters topped with steel lintel, prism glass transoms, round arch windows, and metal cornices. 126 is the only remaining building of The Bash Block today.   Bash erected the central building for the use of A. L. Johns & Company, which can be seen advertised in the 1897 historic image. At the time, A.L. Johns & Co. was the oldest and largest harness firm in the state, creating and repairing horse collars, whips, and saddlery. The east and west wings were used by Bash’s various enterprises. For example, Bash & Co. sold furs, seeds, hides, and produce from about 1885 to 1920. Over the year, 126 W Columbia St was home to various businesses that shaped Fort Wayne’s growth. Rothschild Brothers supplied wholesale paper in the 1920s, and Meyer Brothers Drug Co. distributed pharmaceuticals in the mid-20th century. Protective Electric Supply Company also resided at 126 W Columbia for about 60 years in the early to mid-1900s. Several ghost advertisements for these businesses are still visible from Dock Street, which was once the front of these buildings because they faced the canal.   But this tiny street’s history goes even deeper. The Landing hit a real turning point in March 1965 when a group of Notre Dame students, local advocates, and Mayor Harold Zeis stepped in to successfully promote this section of Columbia Street as a priceless complement to major downtown development. This area was now safe from demolition and officially named “The Landing” to pay tribute to its canal-era roots when Columbia Street was a hub for boats, stagecoaches, and rail travel. The Landing was officially dedicated to the city on October 23, 1965.   Throughout the late-60s and early-70s, the city purchased surrounding blocks and razed buildings for new civic projects, but in 1978, restoration began on the 100 block of West Columbia Street with a new street, sidewalks, landscaping, and streetlamps. The Landing's revitalization efforts were constantly challenged between the 60s and 80s by arson fires, suburban growth, and urban crime. However, the building at 126 West Columbia St held its ground, truly standing the test of time.   The Bash Block has always been a hub of commerce, from canal-era warehousing to mid-century wholesaling. From the mid-80s until the 2010s, this building was home to Productive Business Interiors, which occupied multiple floors, including the basement, 1st, 2nd, and 4th. Other tenants at 126 West Columbia over the years included Indiana Records Managers, Marquet-Carpenter Corp, Vantage Financial Services, Typographic Compositors, and our personal favorite, The Mole Hole Gift Shop, which can be seen in the 1974 and 1975 historic images.   In 2018, The Landing underwent a massive revitalization, bringing new life, businesses, and energy to this historic part of Fort Wayne. Today, the district is home to some of the city’s most beloved restaurants, shops, murals, and events—including Nawa, Bru Burger Bar, Mercado, Summit City Vintage, Urban Hippie, Marquee, Dana's, and Night Train, among many others!   From its roots as a frontier trading post to its rebirth as a modern urban hotspot, The Landing symbolizes Fort Wayne’s resilience, growth, and innovation. There’s even a chance history will repeat itself with The Exchange, The Landing’s latest development on The Bash Block’s location. In the 1897 historic photo, you’ll notice a grocery store in the bottom left corner, and The Exchange hopes to bring a new grocery store to the first level! Wouldn’t it be great to have a grocer in that location again?   It’s said that more than 2,500 business have occupied the entirety of East and West Columbia Street since the late-1700s. The Bash Block alone has supported everything from creative agencies to consultants to wholesalers, and today, they are ready for something new! The 3rd and 4th floors above Nawa are now available for lease. Contact Sturges Property Group at 260-424-8448 to make your mark on a space that’s stood strong for nearly 140 years. Written by: Kendall Heiser & Amy Schuldt