The original black lettering reads: TROUT'S GARAGE/BLACKSMITH SHOP/IN REAR

The building went up around 1915 with the Lincoln Highway right outside the door and the business mix changing rapidly. Assembly-line production of the Ford Model T had begun in 1913. Animal-power was on the way out--and forced to use the back door.

Later came the white paint. The top line cannot be read, but the bottom is one giant word: GARAGE (the final two letters are clearly visible).