703 Peoria Street

In the early days of Washington, the property at 703 Peoria was part of the Jersey Lawn Stock Farm of George Bayler, who had originally worked for George Heyl.  As that farm closed and Washington moved westward on Peoria Street, the area became a mix of residential and commercial spaces.  In the 1950s, Ralph Jones opened a floor covering business out of his home at 609 Peoria Street.

Jones' business flourished and pushed him out of his home.  In 1966, he commenced construction at 703 Peoria, completed in a Colonial style like many other buildings around town, including the library, post office, and Washington State Bank.

In 1969, Ralph and Grace Jones retired and sold the business to Herb and Anita Nelson, who continued under Nelson's Interiors.  Frank and Mariann Maxheimer purchased the business and remained at 703 Peoria Street until 1978, when they moved to 1130 Peoria Street until 1992, now the current location of the Blend.

After Nelson's departure, it was only a short time until another business moved into this prime location. In 1978, Grimm TV & Appliances opened a second store in addition to their Morton location and remained until 1981, when they relocated to the new Cherry Tree Shopping Center.

Grimm TV was followed by Kirk's Service Company in 1982-83 and Swords TV from 1984-1987.  703 Peoria Street had become a revolving door.

The revolving door would be paused in 1987 when David and Mary Lee expanded their photography business from their home at 810 Peoria Street, allowing them to amplify their offerings.  The award-winning Photography By Lee settled in for 30 successful years at the location, from 1987 to 2017.    

Since the departure of Photography by Lee, the revolving door is in motion again:

Boutique 309: 2018-2022
Captured By Morgan Photography: 2018-2022
The Bent Penny: 2023
Fine Line Beauty: 2023-2024
Bill Henry Brazilian Jiu Jitsu: 2023-2024