[2] The building grew in stages, starting as a modest three-story Italianate structure at the corner of Clemence and Washington in 1880.

[3] The building was struck by fire in March 1923, causing over one million dollars worth of damage,[4] but rebuilt under Hall's supervision.

[7] A spokesperson for Eastern Dry Goods told The New York Times in September 1973 that the store "will probably have to be liquidated because of their many problems.

"[6] The announced plan was to open a history museum on the first two floors, to be operated by the Rhode Island Heritage Center.

The 1996 rehabilitation and renovation of the building to accommodate the school was designed by David Presbrey, and included another sidewalk clock on Washington Street.