Bell, James Power House and Elevator

Nothing remains of the buildings today, which were demolished in the late 1980's. Electric power generated here was first commercial power produced in David City. Some time in the 1920's or 30's the building was purchased by the City when a new power plant was built. This building was converted to the fire station. Large doors were added to the west side of the structure and it remained in use as the city fire station until a new fire station was built on D Street in the 1970's. James Bell Biographical Information: On September 13, 1888, James Bell, Esq. appeared before the City Council and made application for a franchise to furnish electricity for David City, which was approved. October 3, 1888, there was a motion to install 12 arc street lights in the business district at a cost of $8.30 per month for each light. The franchise was approved and signed by the City officials and the contract continued for ten years, Jan, 1889 to Jan., 1899.