AUGUST 24 ISSUE ANSWERS (photo to right): This was the Reade and Newman Building. The Romeo Observer said it was commercial Italianate in style. It is 132 years old and was built in 1890. This is the oldest building at the four corners in the center of Romeo. In 1890 brick was the popular building material for commercial stores, just like concrete block was the new material for commercial buildings in 1905 and 1907 just south of this store. After the earlier wooden structure burned in 1890, Reede and Newman began making plans for a two-story brick building to replace the former structure. By Nov. 26, 1890, the Romeo Observer reported “The walls of the new Reede and Newman block are up and it is apparent to all that it is to be one of the finest business blocks in the country in appearance as well as convenience.” In 1983, Richard Rognoni, a previous owner was given a “Better Romeo Award” from the Romeo Historical Society for his restoration after a fire in 1982. R. Beringer, Romeo Historical Society staff