John P. Vollmer (standing)
Normal Quarterly, June 1898
Board of Trustees, Lewiston State Normal School

The Vollmer name is familiar to most inhabitants of Lewiston, but few know its patriarch. John Vollmer's wealth was built on financial instability. Records show that he acquired much of his 32,00 acres in holdings after foreclosing on owners during the "boom and bust" times from 1880-1900. He served as a state agent for the Northern Pacific Railroad, thereby controlling where spur lines would be built. This led to him naming at least two towns after himself.

Businessman, banker, investor, pillar of the community --- or swindler and devious carpetbagger? History has been kind and cruel to this man.
 

Vollmer Great Bargain Store
Constructed 1883

The same year that Vollmer had his store built, he and several local businessmen formed the Lewiston Board of Trade. In 1887, Vollmer organized the Idaho Transit Company to possibly construct a rail line from Lewiston to the Camas Prairie via a route south, but the enterprise was abandoned. Vollmer's efforts were rewarded in 1898 when the Northern Pacific Railroad completed a branch line to Lewiston.

Lewiston State Normal School
Constructed 1895

Originally housed in a downtown theater, the Normal School (so-called from the French "Normale" for a teachers college) began classes in its new home during a time when construction was booming after the financial scares of the early 1890's. Vollmer's financial and legislative influence can certainly be seen in the grand façade that characterizes the structure, much of which still remains in a reconstructed form. The original chiseled marble plaque listing the Board of Trustees, of which Vollmer was a member, still exists at the school, now called Lewis-Clark State College.

First National Bank of Lewiston
Founded 1881

The Vollmer Mansion

The Vollmer mansion had its beginnings in 1896 while Mrs. Vollmer was corresponding with architect J. K. Dow of Spokane, Washington. She wrote in a letter of 18 March 1896: "For your detail work, the following observances I hope will reduce your estimate below the $5,000 mark. Hardwood floors in the hall only and no overhead decorative beams. The staircase to be massive in appearance and of hardwood. The fireplace in reception to be very large. Basement under kitchen and dining room continuous under butler's pantry. No finish lumber to be had here, well seasoned lumber is a rare article here and kiln dried stuff is unknown."

The rounded portico faced 5th Street. Pictured from left to right are Mr. Barber (Mrs. Vollmer's father), Norma Vollmer, and Mr. Vollmer, who is standing at the far right.

View from Pioneer Park across 5th Street

In 1900 J.P. Vollmer and his family moved into their new home on the bluff overlooking his bank and store on Main Street. The home was torn down in 1956 and replaced with an apartment complex.