The building dates back to the late 1930’s when it was owned by the McDonald family, but has seen many businesses occupy its interiors over the last 75 years.

McDonalds ran a general store, selling goods to meet the needs of the community.

The building changed hands in the late 1940’s and Pitt Sons then Denning’s Furniture traded from the premises for a number of years before it became the location of Farmers and Graziers.

The Rural Bank had its first location in the building and a walk in safe still is a unique feature of the building.

Many people remember an arcade within the premises with a photo graphics store, a fabric shop and a barber shop.

The building now has a new look, but despite this it still has many connections to the past.

Soon to open is a new retail outlet housing a number of shops under the one roof.

The owners wanted to keep the essence of the building but bring to Crookwell’s main street an outlet that would cater to the local community and the many visiting tourists that pass through the town.

The trading name “Arcadia Crookwell” will soon be heard about the town as shops from Orange, Goulburn, Young and Canberra move into this grand building bringing a range of clothing, accessories, alpaca products and leather goods.

Also filling the floor space will be a range of antiques, collectables and desirables.

Arcadia Crookwell, owned by David Johnson and Christine Seaman, opens its doors on December 4 ready for Christmas shopping and the holiday season.