New Sidewalk News
Following the Clues
Through multiple sources, I have been able to confirm that Miles did indeed have a furniture shop in downtown Brodhead.
Per his obituary, it is known the shop was open in the 1880's prior to his "retirement." And retirement is used in the loosest of terms, as M. M. McNair was more active and accomplished in his retirement years, than many are in their entire careers. And on a personal note of his life, Sunnyside wan't even built until 1896, when he was 73 years of age.
We know that Miles is responsible for the development of the McNair Block ~ a considerable contribution to the downtown. However, it is unknown where his business was located.
I have come closer with one more clue that the store was still open in 1885, per this snippet from the Brodhead Register from May 23rd, 1885 ...
Next Steps
I am going to prioritize researching any documents in regards to Brodhead's downtown in 1885, in hopes of locating M.M. McNair's business, all while combing the full archives of that year in hopes of more news ... stay tuned ...