The Pollard Building, now better known as the Ramsay Building, was constructed in 1888 on the west side of the Historic Carthage Square after a fire destroyed Sharp’s Saloon.  Built by local businessman William J. Pollard, the project faced numerous challenges, including construction delays and a contractor who abandoned the job, but the two-story brick building was completed in less than three months.  In 1894, a fire originating in a doctor’s office destroyed the second floor, prompting Pollard to rebuild the structure with a more attractive design.

 

The following year, Scottish-born brothers Albert and Robert Ramsay opened Ramsay Brothers Dry Goods in the building, beginning a nearly 80-year association that would make the building a local landmark.  The business expanded significantly over the years, and in 1900 the building was enlarged to occupy much of the property. 

 

Another major fire in 1912 destroyed a large portion of the store’s merchandise, but Ramsay Brothers quickly reopened and turned the disaster into a successful sales event.  A major remodeling in 1917 transformed the building with a modern brick and Carthage stone façade, elegant display windows, and updated storefront.

 

Although it suffered additional fire damage in 1954, the building remained a prominent part of downtown Carthage.  Ramsay Brothers continued operating there until the late 1970s, and many historic features, including the original tin ceiling and 1930s black-and-white tile entryway, remain intact today.  The building continues to serve as a vibrant part of the Historic Carthage Square, preserving an important chapter of the city’s commercial and architectural history.