The Cuthbert Building, constructed in 1910 by the Big Bend Milling Company, was originally occupied by Franklin Cuthbert's furniture business and later housed a series of department stores. In 1920, the Golden Rule Mercantile Co., a popular Southern Oregon retail company, bought the building. In 1927, J.C. Penney bought the property and, in 1947, leased it, remaining there until the early 1960's. Former owner Fred Phelps initiated the renovation in 2002. J.R. Development, LLC, purchased the property in 2004 and restored the west elevation to approximate the original building design, with awnings and tile-covered columns as finishing touches. The building reflects the influence of the Chicago School style of architecture.