About the Badger Building

Historic charm meets modern convenience in the heart of downtown Superior.

Historic photos courtesy of the Douglas County Historical Society and the Superior Telegram

The History of the Badger Building

Constructed between 1892 and 1893, the Badger Building began its life as the Maryland Block, one of downtown Superior’s early commercial anchors. The structure originally housed the Billings Hardware Company and several small retailers that served the growing industrial community at the turn of the century. Its brick façade, tall windows, and detailed stonework reflected the optimism and architectural ambition of late-19th-century Superior.

By the early 1900s, the building had attracted additional businesses, including the Turnbull-Cameron-Degler Company, a furnishings and décor supplier, and the New Era Business College, whose promotional claims boasted educational standards “to rival Harvard and Notre Dame.” These early decades established the Maryland Block as a bustling hub for commerce, education, and professional services.

A transformative chapter began in 1919, when the Evening Telegram—Superior’s longtime daily newspaper—purchased the property. Following a significant renovation investment of $75,000, the newspaper relocated from its former Tower Avenue address into the newly updated structure in 1922. A grand opening celebration on February 8, 1923 included a special 16-page commemorative edition featuring photos by local photographer Ralph Greenfield.

The building—now widely known as the Telegram Building—featured an impressive arcade-style main entrance that opened onto a corridor leading to the lobby and business office. The press room operated from the basement, with stair access to the mezzanine and second-floor departments. Shoppers and passersby could often watch the newspaper presses running through the windows along Tower Avenue, a memorable sight for residents of the era.

Throughout the mid-20th century, the Telegram Building continued to serve a mix of retail and professional tenants, from clothing stores to legal, dental, and advertising offices. A local radio pioneer even founded WEBC, one of the region’s earliest radio stations, within the building.

After the Evening Telegram relocated yet again, the property transitioned in both name and use. By the 1970s, the structure became known as the Badger Building, housing retail storefronts, financial services, and small businesses. This era is captured in photographs showing the distinctive “Badger” façade and the lively commercial streetscape that surrounded it.

Today, the building is proudly owned by JB Building LLC, which continues the legacy of adaptive reuse by offering modern, move-in-ready office suites while preserving the structure’s architectural character. From the Maryland Block to the Telegram Building to the Badger Building, the property has been woven into the fabric of Superior’s downtown for well over a century — and remains an important part of the city’s historic and economic landscape.

A Look at the Building Today

Thoughtfully updated with modern finishes, secure amenities, and a welcoming environment for today’s businesses.

Owned and Managed by JB Building LLC

For the past eight years, the Badger Building has been proudly owned and managed by JB Building LLC. During this time, the property has undergone continuous improvements aimed at creating a comfortable, modern, and reliable environment for today’s businesses.

Under JB Building’s ownership, numerous upgrades have been completed, including the remodeling of multiple suites, new carpeting and paint throughout the common areas, installation of security cameras and keyless entry, and updates to heating and air conditioning systems within tenant spaces. Thoughtful touches—such as refreshed hallway décor, improved lighting, and comfortable seating areas—have helped enhance the feel of the building while preserving its historic character.

With on-site, hands-on management, tenants benefit from responsive support, quick turnaround on maintenance requests, and a building owner who is present and invested in the day-to-day experience of everyone who works here. The goal has always been simple: to provide professional, move-in-ready office spaces in a clean, well-maintained, and welcoming environment.

JB Building LLC has also contributed to the growth and revitalization of Superior through other local projects, including the construction of the Sherwin-Williams building on Tower Avenue and the Bimbo Bakeries distribution center on N. 6th Street. These investments reflect our long-term commitment to supporting local businesses and strengthening the economic landscape of downtown Superior.

Looking ahead, JB Building LLC remains focused on continued improvements to the property and on offering flexible, high-quality office spaces that help local businesses thrive.

Historic photos courtesy of the Douglas County Historical Society and the Superior Telegram