One of the two buildings that now make up “Art Under a Hot Tin Roof,” 114 E. Lafayette, was originally a general merchandise store, built in the 1840's. During the Civil War it stayed open, but according to newspaper reports, like many of the stores east of Market, was raided during the war.

In the city directory of 1872, Smith and Stegall were listed at this address. They were grocers, commission merchants, and wholesale dealers in whiskies, wines, etc. The 1880's is the first time a building is listed at 112 E. Lafayette, described as a two story, shotgun style building. Like 114, it had sleeping rooms on the second floor. Both of these buildings had many tenants and I am sure the Semrau’s will attest to the fact that each tenant had their own taste in wall coverings.

Other occupants included A.J. Strasberg and Hal R. Moore, Tailor’s, in 1904. In 1923, residents were Samples Shoes and Jackson Jewelry. In 1935, Jackson Jewelry was still at 114 but Fannye’s Dress Shop was at 112. In the early 40's I found Fannye’s Dress Shop still holding on, but 114 was the new home of Albert’s Slipper Shop. In the late 50's, the wall between the stores was removed and the ceiling was lowered, creating Albert’s Wearing Apparel for Women. When Albert’s closed, the building was vacant until the late 90's. It was occupied by Sally’s Beauty Supply until the Semrau’s purchased the property.