The early 20th century saw significant changes in the saddlery business as the industry became mechanized and wholesalers who previously supplied small harness makers moved into manufacturing. "Lincoln is now thoroughly equipped to send out anything needed from the chain harness for the ox team to the finely finished coach harness," said a local newspaper in 1904.

Harpham Bros. Co. Harness and Saddle Factory (Original Tenants)

By 1905 there were three Lincoln saddlery factories, two of which were located in Haymarket. The Harpham Brothers Company started in 1884 with the two owners as the only employees. Their four-story building of 1903 housed 82 employees in a structure specially designed as both a wholesale warehouse and a thoroughly equipped harness and saddle factory. The brown-brick P" Street façade is one of the most dignified in the Haymarket District, with three-story tall pilasters framing the upper floors,restrained copper cornice, and nicely detailed main entrance. That doorway echoes in miniature the design of the whole façade. Note also the wrought iron decoration of the fire escape.

In 1912, the Harpham Bros. Horse Collar Factory was added
(see "Horse Collar Factory" history).

Today, the Harpham Building is the centerpiece of "Haymarket Square" a mixed-use rehabilitation project consisting of four buildings surrounding an inviting courtyard.