The building we know today as Phenix Block was constructed in the 19th century. The building was built and designed by Andrew Poe and held a few different shops, such as Ravenna Carriage Manufacturing. The original building was nearly completely destroyed by a devastating fire in the year 1852, The building was renovated by the Odd Fellows, giving it the iconic front face and the name Phenix Block after it rose from the ashes, much like the mythical creature it was named after. The initials I.O.O.F on the front face make reference to this, standing for International Order of the Odd Fellows. After these renovations, stores continued to occupy the spaces within the building. Some of these stores included John H. Bostwick and Co, which was a dry goods store. James Twitt's hat store, E.T Richardson's hardware store, Dr. Reed's dentist office, and Green and Stow's melodeon rooms, which could be used for a place to practice and play music. Free masons rented out the entire third floor and the Odd Fellows were allowed to rent it out for free after their renovations on the building.