J. C. Penney Historic District

The J. C. Penney Historic District in Kemmerer consists of three buildings positioned at the intersection of JC Penney Drive and South Main Street. They include two commercial structures from the early 1900s and a residential home that together formed a combined workplace and living center.

A merchant opened his first store in Kemmerer in 1902 under the name Golden Rule Store. His business model spread rapidly and eventually led to the creation of a major retail chain.

The district shows how a merchant lived and worked in the same location, blending his business with family life. Walking through reveals how early retail pioneers remained connected to their hometowns.

You can view the buildings from outside, and during summer months a museum inside the former residence opens to visitors. It helps to check ahead on visiting times since access may be limited to certain seasons.

The commercial buildings display a rare combination of stone with marble and cast iron facade elements from the early 1900s. This crafted construction style stands apart from later, simpler business building methods.