Fohs Gave Marion More Than A Building

 

The story of Fohs Hall on North Walker Street in Marion is well-documented in the annals of Crittenden County history.

However, what is not commonly known is that the construction of Fohs Hall not only gave Marion its most notable landmark, but indirectly resulted in the installation of a public water system in 1926.

According to the late local historian, Thomas Tucker, Julius Fohs offered to build the two-story building for the City of Marion and foot the entire bill as a gift to his hometown.

However, Fohs, than a world-famous geologist, had one condition attached to his generous offer.  He insisted that if he were to erect the structure on the same lot where his family once lived, Marion must install a city water system to allow citizens access to city-supplied running water.

The reasoning behind Fohs' request was one of protection for the facility and other Marion structures.  Fohs' father had lost his Marion retail business to fire two different times in the past.

After many years of having delayed the inevitable, the city council agreed to his request of creating a public water works project for the city.  

 The trenches were finally dug, the pipes installed and water turned on all as a result of a generous man's concern for the well-being of his hometown.

Fohs Hall as it stands today.  Marion's most historic building.