Feraud General Merchandise Store, Commercial landmark in Ventura, California

The Feraud General Merchandise Store is a brick building at the corner of Main Street and Ventura Avenue that reflects early 1900s commercial architecture. Its solid construction and period details showcase the practical design typical of trading establishments from that era.

Jules Feraud built the structure in 1903 during a period of economic expansion triggered by railroad arrival in the region. The timing of its completion marked the start of sustained growth and development in Ventura.

Jules Feraud, a French immigrant who arrived in Ventura in 1875, ran the store with his sons Anselmo, Frank, Charles, Ernest and Anthony. Frank kept it going until at least 1941, and the bakery stayed in the family until 1944. The building now houses Paddy's Bar and Lounge.

The building sits at a central corner intersection that is easy to locate and access from downtown. Visitors can view the exterior facade at any time, with its current use as a bar allowing easy observation from the street.

At 12 W. Main Street, Phillip E. Marquez, known as "Phil the Barber", cut hair for 63 years until retiring in 2010 at age 96. The mayor declared June 5, 2011 "Phil Marquez Day"; photos donated by his family hang in the store.