Henry J. Bauer built this art deco style building in 1914 to house his garage, auto salesroom and repair shop. The cost to build was about $12,000, a princely sum in those days. The entire building was built of brick, iron, and cement, and was said to be “as nearly fireproof as possible.”
The exterior has green glazed brick, trimmed in white and embellished with cast stone. The “flying wheel” design of the cast stone is a favorite among many locals. Above the center front doorway one can still see the words, “Bauer’s Garage”.
A 1915 article in the Crystal Lake Herald listed Bauer and Sons as one of seven auto agencies in Crystal Lake. Bauer was selling Auburn Automobiles. At that time, the 4-cylinder, 36 horsepower car sold for $1,076.
In 1920, Henry Bauer retired and his two sons, Arwin and Edwin took over the business. The sons expanded operations, opening the first gas station in Crystal Lake at the northeast corner of Grant & Brink.
The Bauer family retained ownership of this building until 1978. The first floor is currently divided and is home to two businesses: Aroma Coffee & Wine (left side) and Blush Salon & Spa (right side).
Join us as we celebrate Historic Preservation Month! Be sure to walk around Downtown Crystal Lake and learn more about our local history. Thank you to the Crystal Lake Historical Society for the information presented here!
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