1116 Government Street
Date of construction: 1882, alterations 1909
Architect for alterations: Thomas Hooper
John Smeaton had this two storey brick shop built at a cost of $2,000.
The building was noted as a dry goods store in a plumbing permit dated
February 28, 1895. The name at this time was the Westside.
In 1907, this location was the home of the Ideal Shoe Store and Sea
& Gowan- men's furnishings. The December 3, 1908 British Colonist
reported that " an important deal has just been consummated whereby E.
A. Morris, tobacconist, has purchased the premises now occupied by the
Ideal Shoe Company, on Government street, between Fort street and
Bastion street.
As soon as the latter concern moves out, Mr.
Morris will proceed with the fitting up of his new premises, which will
compare favorably with the elaborate and expensive fittings of his
Vancouver store."
The Ideal Shoe Store's last day of business was October 30, 1909 and the extensive renovations began thereafter.
The interior was designed to emulate a High Victorian gentleman's club.
The doorway is of Mexican onyx and the domed leaded window above blends
with the interior ceiling mirrors, making the store seem larger than it
is. In the centre of the floor is an electrolier on an onyx pedestal.
During the renovation, the original counters were replaced with
mahogany ones. The exterior features glazed brick on the upper storey
and a fine name plate. The interior is still remarkably intact,
virtually unchanged since 1910. A visit is like walking into an early
20th century store.
Today, E. A. Morris Tobacconist still occupies this space, although
changes to local bylaws have made some signage changes necessary.
This Hallmark Society project has been funded by the Hbc Foundation and the BC150-Heritage Legacy Fund.
Project manager and researcher: Helen Edwards.
Principal Photography & Consultant:
Ron Bukta, West Ventures Photography.