Main Street, Monticello, looking north early 1900’s. Note the construction of the Monticello House tower on the west side of Main Street. The original Monticello House was built in 1851, but burned in 1895. “Moving to Monticello about 1895, Mr. Jacob Figi, in association with his father, constructed the ‘new’ Monticello House which for many years ranked among the finest hostelries in this section of the state. The hotel at that time was far above the average for a community the size of Monticello and the efficient and high class manner in which it was conducted by Landlord and Mrs. Figi made it a favorite stopping place among travelers.” — From obituary of Jacob Figi. Note the dirt streets, wooden sidewalks and hitching posts. Monticello Main Street was first paved in 1917.