The Spirit of Community in Delano is defined by the
Creativity, Resilience, and Community Investment of its people.
Eppel Building
Moved to current location in 1871100 Bridge Avenue East The Eppel Building at 100 Bridge Avenue E., at the corner of Bridge Avenue and River Street, is one of Delano’s oldest surviving commercial landmarks. Its history reaches back to 1871, when Charles Eppel moved the building from south of the railroad tracks to its present location and opened a mercantile store selling dry goods and groceries along with a saloon. The building had also been the Eppel family home, where the first Catholic Mass in the community was celebrated by a missionary priest. Over the years, additions were made and the property housed a harness shop and an early restaurant operated by Charles’s son Leo. During much of the 20th century, the building became closely associated with Curley’s Men’s Clothing Store, later operated by Marshall Dainsberg and then Carroll Lundeen. Since the clothing store closed, numerous businesses have occupied the building, including Linnea’s Ice Cream Parlor, Curves for Women, Cyber Geeks, Bridge House Coffee & Café and Nature Nook Cafe and Wine Bar. Although its exterior has been extensively remodeled, the building retains its original form and remains recognizable as the structure Charles Eppel moved to this prominent downtown corner more than 150 years ago.
This building at 100 Bridge Ave. E. was originally located near the present site of St. Peter's church. It was the home of Charles Eppel and his family.
The first mass in the town was read by a missionary priest in this house.
In 1871, Charles moved his building to its present location and opened a mercantile store and saloon. Additions were made to accommodate a harness shop.
Charles' son, Leo opened his first restaurant in the back room of the saloon.
In the early 20th century the Eppel building became Curley's Clothing Store. It was sold to Carroll Lundeen and became Lundeen's.
In 1998 the building was used during the filming of “A Simple Plan” staring Bill Paxton, Billy Bob Thornton and Bridget Fonda.
Several businesses have occupied the building, including a China and Crystal business, Linnea's Ice Cream Parlor, Curves for Women, Cyber Geeks, Wilbur’s Coffee and currently Nature Nook Cafe and Wine Bar.
The content on this page is brought to you by the Delano Spirit of Community Trail Committee in honor of Delano's 150th Anniversary.