History of theRiverfront Event Center
The Riverfront Event Center actually consist of 4 buildings. The West building was the Fantles Departments Store, Middle Building (Eatery) was the Globe Clothiers, Men’s clothing store, The Eastern Side ( Evening Star event space) was the Scott’s 5 and Dime Store, The South building offices and meeting space was Erickson Bakery..They were not connected..
Today we’ll discuss the NW Corner…Fantles Department Store: Before it was Fantles, in the 1800’s it was the Union Block Building. There were not streets they used blocks for address, so this block between 3rd st (main) Walnut Street and Douglas and 2nd Street was the Union Block, named so for the Union Block Building. A beautiful 3 story building that housed the Yankton Business Men’s Club, The first telephone company, Fred Klop Clothing Store, a law office, a doctors office and a Masonic Lodge.. Quite impressive for that day.
Discover event places at their FinestEvent Centers
In The Riverfront, The Brewery or the River Rose you can host weddings, events, meetings, conferences or even a convention with break out rooms. It has great beauty and charm, not ordinary but Extraordinary! A place you’ll love to bring your family friends and coworkers to. Its location, right in the heart of downtown and 1/2 block from the Water Plaza and Walking Bridge, makes it even more attractive.
What can you do at the Riverfront?Riverfront Attractions
The Dakota Special Train
Many years ago an 87 year old man by the Name of Milo Prehiem, came to visit us, said he wanted us to buy his train…My first thought was 55 gallon drums cut down being pulled by whatever.. Curt took the trip Milo’s east 40, he called it,in Parker SD to see his train..He couldn’t believe this man built this train from scratch. It took him several years to do it. After it was completed he and his wife Dorthy spent most of their time going to fairs and show to the delight of whomever would ride it or see it.
