Shields' Block
The Shields’ Block commercial building on the south side of the town square in Newark has undergone considerable renovations since it construction around 1866, yet this retail and office space preserves a glimpse of the nineteenth century cityscape in the downtown urban space. This High Victorian-style building has survived mostly intact, even as its neighbors have suffered fires and demolition over the last century and a half. The Shields’ Block was built on the site of Colonel William Gault's Hotel and Tavern, one of Newark's first landmarks. [1]
William Shields was born in New York in 1814 and after coming to Newark became a farmer and wool merchant of some means. In addition to his business ventures, he owned a large amount of real estate in the county. [2]
Numerous commercial occupants have come and gone from this structure at South Park Place, with furniture stores, bars and clubs, professional offices, and others renting space.
J.G.
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