Turn-of-the-twentieth-century social critics viewed apartment living as “the most dangerous enemy American domesticity has had to encounter.” Butte investors ignored this admonition, constructing the fashionable Leonard Apartments in 1906 to help solve an unprecedented demand for housing. Designed by Butte architect William A. O’Brien, this massive brick building with its graceful twin curved bays, overhanging cornice, and decorative lion medallions lent the city an urban flair. In 1910, the Leonard Cafe advertised that it was “the best place in Butte to dine.” Patrons could enjoy a complete dinner for fifty cents. Even today the upward sweep of the building’s façade is impressive, proclaiming the caliber of its architect.
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