J.C. Penny Building

🧱 J.C. Penney Building



 Address:  106 South Chicago Street, Hot Springs, SD


 Built:  1938


 Quarry:  Primarily brick construction


📜 Historical Overview

Although not constructed of stone, the J.C. Penney Building showcases exceptional brick craftsmanship. Directly above the sign and along the cornice are soldier courses—bricks set on end in a vertical stack. Recessed, square brick panels are formed with seven courses of header bricks, adding texture and shadow. Smooth-faced sandstone trim offers subtle contrast, while yellow and black tile panels beneath the storefront windows provide a bright accent. This well-preserved structure demonstrates how signage, awnings, and window displays were integrated into original architectural design.


Today, the building houses Maker’s Market and Heartland Real Estate (James Bultsma), continuing its legacy as a commercial hub in downtown Hot Springs.


🔍 Things SOS Is Still Looking For

  • Architect/Builder – No records yet of who designed or constructed the building in 1938.
  • Commercial History – How long it operated as J.C. Penney and its later uses.
  • Interior Features – Any surviving original interior details, floor plans, or store fixtures.


QR Code Info: Built in 1938, this structure once housed a J.C. Penney department store, giving the building its enduring name. Its brick craftsmanship features soldier courses along the cornice, recessed header-brick panels, and smooth sandstone trim, while yellow and black tile once brightened the storefront. Though primarily brick, it remains one of Hot Springs’ best-preserved retail façades and continues to serve as a hub of downtown commerce.

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