75 West Main Street

Now & Then: 75 West Main Street, Webster, NY

Now

 Today, 75 West Main Street is home to Maria’s Mexican Restaurant, a beloved local favorite known for its authentic homestyle Mexican cuisine and award-winning margaritas. Maria’s has been serving the Webster community for over 40 years, offering handmade tortillas, fresh ingredients, and a festive atmosphere. The restaurant occupies the lower level of the building, with its entrance at the rear parking lot.

Late 20th Century

 Before Maria’s, the building was repurposed as the Old Church Mall, a unique retail space known as the Street of Shops, which included Village Mall Video, a nostalgic destination for movie rentals and collectibles. The video store was operated by Karen Fideor beginning in the 1980s.

1970s

 In the early 1970s, the former church was transformed into a disco nightclub called Blakes. The sanctuary space was converted into a vibrant nightlife venue, complete with a bar on the second floor and a sparkling disco ball, making it a memorable hotspot for dancing and socializing in Webster.

Church Era

 Originally built and dedicated in 1860, the building was home to the First Methodist Episcopal Church, also known as the Webster Methodist Church or Village Church. The congregation began in 1830 as the “Second Society of the Methodist Episcopal Church” with just eight members. Over the years, the church underwent several renovations:

·         1903: Modernization including new roof, pews, altar, and heating.

·         1909: Choir loft remodeled for a new pipe organ.

·         1916: A 30-foot addition was added.

·         1960–61: A three-story educational wing was built.

·         1964: A church library was dedicated.

In 1973, following a merger with another Methodist congregation, the building was sold and repurposed for commercial use, beginning its transformation into the multi-use space we know today.