Prominent Montana merchant and cattleman John T. Murphy, who also ran a major freighting outfit between Fort Benton and the mining camps, went into partnership with Samuel Neel to build this commercial building in 1880 at a cost of $15,000. The impressive one-story brick building on the riverfront served as mercantile store and warehouse. Distinctive corbelling, arched doorways, and tall pillared chimneys enhanced its original appearance. The one remaining chimney still retains the intricate design.