Who we are

Modern Tool Square’s history starts all the way back in the late 19th century. What initially began as a simple market house gradually transformed into the home of the well-known modern tool company. Decades later, life was breathed back into the building when it was repurposed into apartments, shopping spaces, and offices for local businesses. Today, the ongoing restoration efforts continue to enhance the historical value of this site and help reestablish the true heart and character of Erie, Pennsylvania.

The People’s Market, one of the very first enclosed markets established in Erie, was originally designed to provide a space where farmers and shoppers could comfortably meet in a clean and safe environment to support one another by bringing quality goods directly to consumers. This market also served as the epicenter for numerous special events and celebrations, where vibrant parades passed by and various charities gathered, creating a sense of community that made the Newmarket feel like a welcoming home for everyone involved. With an impressive 125 stalls available, it was regarded as one of the largest and best-arranged market houses in the entire country, particularly at a time when the common grocery store we see today was starting to gain popularity. In response to changing market dynamics, the Peoples Market began leasing space to local manufacturers, further enhancing its role as a vital hub for commerce and community connection.

In 1902, a significant space was leased to the Modern Tool Company, marking the beginning of its extensive journey. It didn’t take long for the Modern Tool Co. to acquire the entire building, allowing them to commence their many additions and renovations. As you walk through the current Modern Tool Square, you can clearly see how new structures were thoughtfully built around the historical old buildings, showcasing the ongoing and dynamic expansion that characterizes this area today. Throughout most of its history, Modern Tool Co. operated primarily as a tool and die business; however, they later expanded their capabilities to include manufacturing a diverse range of products such as paper, silk engines, boilers, clothing, and more. For a brief and memorable period, they even ventured into the automotive industry, creating a vehicle that was designed by the founders, Calvin and Frank Payne. The quality and craftsmanship of each their Payne-Modern automobile was unparalleled compared to other vehicles being manufactured at that time. Unfortunately, the costs associated with production were prohibitively high, which ultimately led to a relatively short-lived era of automobile production.

In the late 1920s, many companies made ambitious attempts to acquire modern tool equipment, and during this period, a notable building had been sitting vacant for years. A well-known Erie resident, Jacob Roth, eventually purchased the building and began leasing out the available space to various companies in the surrounding area. The Daka Paper Company, in particular, became a significant tenant and leased most of the space until the mid-1960s. After several years of inactivity, the building again sat vacant, prompting many local leaders to propose that it should be demolished to make way for newer structures. Following years of discussions, and with the assistance of the Department of Housing and Irving Development, coupled with the designation of the building on the National Register of Historic Places, the decision was ultimately made to preserve the building. It would be transformed into a vibrant apartment and shopping complex. In March 1986, the revitalized building reopened as Modern Tool Square and was described as a convenient one-stop shop for the community. This unique location offered residents and visitors alike a space to live, work, shop, and dine, promoting the idea of having everything one might need all in one place. Even in its current state, the location continues to embody this essence, and the new owners are eager to restore the building to its former glory while enticing both the Erie community and visitors alike with its features and charm.