As Wheeling grew, the need for expanded and centralized markets led to construction of a second market house. In 1890 the city's population was 34,522, and at the will of the people a new market was built. Wheeling architect Edward B. Franzheim designed the building with timber and wrought iron scissor trusses resting on brick piers. Reflecting its purpose, four terra cotta animal medallions flank the central arches, with a bull's head and a ram at the center east and a stallion and boar at the center west. Wheeling had a reputation for having the finest market around, offering fresh fish, varieties of meats, cheese, hand churned butter, and a medley of fresh fruits and vegetables. As the stalls filled, vendors began selling, their familiar calls ringing through the aisles as merchants competed by calling out their specials for the day. The addition of the second building increased activity around the markets, and traffic jams of wagons and carriages became commonplace as citizens competed with the local trolley for right-of-way. Each day as the markets closed, most vendors sighed with relief and looked forward to the next day's emotional activity.