Chamber of Commerce

Chamber of Commerce

Building History:

The building formerly known as the Fruita museum is also known as the “Rock-A-Day” building due to the process of its construction. In 1937, the Fruita Museum Society was formed, and the Works Progress Administration began the slow process of piecing together the unique rock museum in 1938. The rocks used for the building came from many different parts of the country including Utah, Hawaii, Mexico and some just down by the Colorado River. Some builders had the easy job of seeking out and gathering rock of various shapes and sizes but that was not the case for all. Others literally had to hold rocks, up to 200 pounds, in place until the concrete held and some had to cut and haul logs from the Salt Wash for the building’s roof. After over a year of extraordinary construction, the Fruita museum was complete and open to the public on July 7, 1939. When you drop by to admire the “Rock-A-Day,” keep your eyes peeled for fossils and dinosaur bones that are said to be tied into the distinctive structure.

Current Building Information:

The Fruita Museum building has been leased to the Fruita Chamber of Commerce since March 1, 2003. A vital and stable Chamber of Commerce is an integral part of the health of the business community and supports the Economic Health of the community. Providing this facility for use by the Chamber is intended to help to give the Chamber a separate identity, ensure their stability, and allow them to focus more of their efforts on achieving their mission. Learn more about the Fruita Chamber of Commerce on their website.

 

Source notes on the history of "Rock-A-Day" - https://livingnewdeal.org/projects/chamber-of-commerce-building-fruita-co/