On Nov. 10, 2020, the Benson Commercial Historic District was added to the National Register of Historic Places.

It runs along Maple Street from 59th to 63rd streets, along Military Avenue from Maple to Binney, and along 61st Street from Maple to Binney. During the period of significance, Maple Street was known as Military Avenue from the east gateway to the area where Maple currently intersects with Military. It was renamed Maple Street in 1977.

According to information compiled for the Benson Days 2021 Commercial Historic District Tour, our home at 6066 Maple Street was once known as 6064 1/2 Maple. County records say it was built in 1908. Take a look below at its partial history - our thanks to the Benson Neighborhood Association for creating the tour. We’d love to be able to create a complete timeline of businesses that made their home here during the past 115 years. Can you help? If so, reach out to us at mingtoygallery@gmail.com. Thanks!