David D. Colton built a handsome brick building on this site in 1856 and outfitted the upper floor as a theater, which operated until 1858. At various times the building housed several businesses, including a skating rink, saloon, hotel, restaurant, and soda factory. After the Great Conflagration burned the structure on July 4, 1871, the west half was rebuilt in 1882 and the eastern portion several years later. The fronts were altered and modernized, but the interior spaces accommodated successful businesses for over a century. Colton left Yreka in 1859, studied law, and became associated with the "Big Four" of railroad fame. His presence and enterprising spirit played a substantial role in Yreka's history.