The G. Fox & Co. Building stands as a historic landmark in downtown Hartford, Connecticut. This iconic structure once housed one of America’s largest privately-owned department stores, which operated for nearly 150 years. The 11-story building on Main Street represents the golden age of retail in Connecticut and offers visitors a glimpse into the rich commercial history of the region.
When you visit the G. Fox & Co. Building, you’ll be walking through a site that has deep roots in Hartford’s development. Founded by German immigrant Gerson Fox in 1847, the business grew from a small dry goods store into a retail empire under the leadership of three generations of the Fox family. After a devastating fire in 1917, the current building was constructed in 1918 and became a beloved shopping destination for Connecticut residents for decades.
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MakerspaceCT
MakerspaceCT is a vibrant hub for innovation located in the historic G. Fox & Co. Building in Hartford. As the headquarters for Connecticut’s Maker Movement, this creative space gives you access to tools, technology, and training that can turn your ideas into reality.
You’ll find a diverse community of creators at MakerspaceCT, with facilities including a machine shop, metal workshop, and 3D printing services. The space also offers computer training and woodworking classes for makers at all skill levels.
Educational programs are a key focus, with engineering courses that prepare students for careers in STEM fields. Their commitment to providing access and education has been recognized with grants like the $10,000 award from Infosys Foundation USA, highlighting their work with underrepresented communities.
When you visit, you can explore the makerspace during their open hours: Tuesday evenings, Thursday through Saturday from 10am to 9pm, and Sundays from 10am to 6pm. The space is closed on Mondays and Wednesdays, so plan your visit accordingly.
Rating: 4.9 (20 reviews)
Location: 36 Talcott St, Hartford, CT 06103
Contact: (860) 619-6253
Website: Visit Website
Foxonnet, LLC
Foxonnet, LLC is a beauty supply store that brings a touch of elegance to the Connecticut beauty scene. You’ll find this charming establishment offers a variety of beauty products to meet your personal care needs.
When you visit Foxonnet, you can shop with confidence knowing they provide secure checkout through Square. This ensures your payment information remains protected while you browse their selection of beauty supplies.
The store maintains an online presence through their website, roxmyfoxonnet.com, making it convenient for you to explore their offerings before visiting in person. Their digital storefront complements their physical location, giving you multiple ways to shop.
While not directly connected to the historic G. Fox & Co. Building in Hartford, Foxonnet represents the continuing tradition of retail excellence that G. Fox once embodied in Connecticut’s commercial landscape.
Location: Foxonnet, LLC
Contact: (401) 484-1185
Website: Visit Website
M.D. Fox Manor
M.D. Fox Manor is a housing complex located in Hartford, Connecticut. Named in connection with the historic G. Fox & Co. department store family, this residential building provides affordable housing options for Hartford residents.
The complex stands at 461 Washington Street, just a short distance from downtown Hartford. You’ll find it conveniently positioned near public transportation, making it easy to access other parts of the city.
M.D. Fox Manor represents part of Hartford’s efforts to provide quality housing in urban neighborhoods. The building’s name honors the Fox family’s legacy in Hartford, connecting the city’s commercial history with its residential development.
When you visit the area, you’ll notice how M.D. Fox Manor fits into the broader landscape of Hartford’s revitalization efforts. The complex contributes to the diverse housing options available in Connecticut’s capital city.
Location: 461 Washington St, Hartford, CT 06106
Sage Allen
Sage Allen Apartments in Hartford brings new life to a historic landmark. The building, once a famous department store built in 1898, has been transformed into stylish living spaces with modern amenities while keeping its historic charm.
You can choose from several housing options at Sage Allen. The main tower at 21 Temple Street offers 78 studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments. The newer phase at 29 Temple Street features garden-style courtyard studios and one-bedroom flats, plus some shared townhomes.
The apartments boast luxury finishes like quartz countertops, modern backsplashes, and oversized windows. Each space has its own unique character, making these some of the most distinctive homes in downtown Hartford.
Living at Sage Allen puts you within walking distance of downtown Hartford’s best restaurants, cultural spots, and parks. You’ll enjoy easy access to highways and parking options, making it convenient no matter where you need to go in the city.
Rating: 3.7 (30 reviews)
Location: 21 Temple St, Hartford, CT 06103
Contact: (860) 775-7210
Website: Visit Website
960 Main LLC
960 Main LLC currently operates in the historic G. Fox Building in downtown Hartford. This real estate attorney office helps clients navigate property transactions in Connecticut’s capital city. You’ll find them located on the 6th floor of this iconic landmark building.
The company maintains a perfect 5-star rating, showing their commitment to quality legal services. When you need assistance with real estate matters in Hartford, their experienced team can provide the guidance you’re looking for.
The G. Fox Building at 960 Main Street has been transformed from its department store past into a multi-use facility housing various businesses. 960 Main LLC represents part of the building’s modern purpose, bringing professional services to this historic structure.
You might appreciate how the company preserves the character of old Hartford while providing contemporary legal expertise. Their presence in this landmark building connects Hartford’s retail history with its current business community.
Rating: 5.0 (1 review)
Location: G. Fox Building, 960 Main St # 6, Hartford, CT 06103
Contact: (860) 466-4051
Sonia Plumb Dance Company
Sonia Plumb Dance Company is a vibrant arts organization nestled within the historic G. Fox & Co. Building. Founded in 1991, this non-profit dance company has been enriching Hartford’s cultural landscape for over 30 years.
When you visit, you’ll experience the transformative power of dance through their innovative performances. The company believes dance provides physical and mental well-being, spatial awareness, and creative expression—benefits that extend to performers and audience members alike.
The company is deeply committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. They work to create opportunities for dancers and community members from all backgrounds, offering free and low-cost access to performances when needed.
You’ll appreciate their community engagement initiatives that connect their artistic work to Hartford residents. Their programming extends beyond performances to include educational outreach, making dance accessible to students and community members throughout Connecticut.
Rating: 5 (1 review)
Location: 233 Pearl St Ste 14, Hartford, CT 06103
Contact: (860) 681-5779
Website: Visit Website
Historical Background
G. Fox & Co. was an iconic part of Hartford’s identity for nearly 150 years, shaping both the city’s skyline and its cultural landscape. The store’s evolution mirrors Hartford’s own growth from a small New England city to a thriving urban center.
Origins and Founders
G. Fox & Co. began in 1847 when German immigrant Gerson Fox (born Gerson Fuchs) and his brother Isaac opened a small dry goods store called I. & G. Fox Co. in Hartford. When Isaac later sold his interest, Gerson renamed it G. Fox and Co.
The business started as a single-room storefront but quickly grew as Hartford expanded. After Gerson’s leadership, his son Moses Fox took over in 1880, continuing the family tradition. Under Moses, the company purchased property on Main Street and built a four-story building that would serve as their flagship location.
Tragedy struck in 1917 when this building was destroyed by fire. However, this setback led to an opportunity for remarkable growth and transformation.
Architectural Significance
Following the devastating 1917 fire, G. Fox built an impressive eleven-story building on the same Main Street location. This new structure, completed in 1918, became an architectural landmark in downtown Hartford.
The building’s design reflected the grandeur of early 20th century department stores, when these retail palaces were centers of commerce and social activity. Its imposing façade and large display windows invited shoppers inside to experience a world of luxury and possibility.
When you visit today, you can still admire the building’s historic character. Though G. Fox itself closed in the 1990s, the structure remains an important piece of Hartford’s architectural heritage, standing as a testament to the golden age of American department stores.
Cultural Impact
G. Fox & Co. was more than just a department store; it became a beloved symbol of Hartford’s identity and a gathering place for generations of Connecticut residents.
Role in Hartford’s Community
G. Fox & Co. served as the heart of downtown Hartford for nearly 150 years. The store became a cultural landmark where families created lasting memories.
During the holidays, a trip to G. Fox was a cherished tradition. The store’s elaborate window displays and decorated interiors transformed shopping into a magical experience that brought the community together.
Under Beatrice Fox Auerbach’s leadership, the store pioneered employee welfare programs uncommon for the time. These included medical care, profit-sharing, and education benefits that improved life for many Hartford families.
The store also broke social barriers. G. Fox was known for its progressive hiring practices and became one of the first major retailers to employ African Americans in visible customer service roles.
Events and Stories
G. Fox hosted countless community events that became woven into Hartford’s social fabric. Their annual Christmas parade drew thousands of excited children and parents to downtown.
The famous G. Fox tea room wasn’t just a place to eat—it was where you might run into neighbors, discuss local politics, or celebrate special occasions. Many Connecticut residents still remember the chicken pot pie and chocolate brownies served there!
When celebrities visited Hartford, they often made appearances at G. Fox. These events turned the department store into an exciting venue where you could meet favorite actors or authors.
The store’s legendary customer service created countless stories passed down through generations. Salespeople knew regular customers by name, and the store’s unconditional return policy built tremendous loyalty.
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