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Columbia Confectionary

Introduction

Text-to-speech Audio

In the 1930s Nick Vamkros’ confectionery sold sweets to school children in 5¢ grab bags (about 75¢ in 2020.) The Rainier Businessmen’s Club, precursor to the Rainier Chamber of Commerce, met here as well. In 1989 Gwen Baker opened the Wellington, a pioneering business in Columbia City’s revitalization. Baker’s elegant African-American Victorian restaurant offered high tea complete with cream scones and strawberries, plus peach cobbler and other Southern delicacies.

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Backstory and Context

Text-to-speech Audio

The plot of land before you has been the home of many different establishments and stores. Originally this was the home of a frame building which housed a different confectionery than what stands here today. This confectionery was owned by Ervin E. Franker starting in 1910. In 1928 the next owner M. Paul replaced the original building with a new brick one which costed $4,000 (about $60,800 in 2020 dollars, adjusted for inflation.)

After M. Paul, the building changed hands and uses throughout the years. In the 1930s Nick and Catherine Vamkros ran the Columbia Confectionary. Later still other businesses such as Otto Richardson's, Rainier Drug Store, and Elmo's Drug store. Currently this building houses a restaurant named "The Wellington."

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