Economics

The Arcade proved to be more aesthetically triumphant than it was commercially. The spaces remained only partially filled for several years after the building's opening, and consumers were reluctant to stray far from Cheapside, Providence's traditional shopping district. The Providence Athenaeum occupied rooms 42 and 43 from 1831 until 1838, and the organization's move left behind an additional 26 retail spaces, for a total of 78. Only in 1870 was the Arcade finally able to rent out 90% of its capacity.