Chamber of Commerce building closer to city heritage site designation
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Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 20/06/2018 (2895 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.
One of Brandon’s most prominent downtown buildings may soon become a Municipal Heritage Site.
City council voted to proceed with the designation process for 1043 Rosser Ave. — the current home of the Brandon Chamber of Commerce.
Mayor Rick Chrest said this designation would “help to pave the way for keeping that building alive and vital for hopefully many more years to come.”
The Municipal Heritage Advisory Committee evaluated the site, using criteria and standards recommended by the Manitoba Historic Resources Branch. They looked at the architectural and historical merits of the property.
The building, designed by the Montreal architectural firm of Taylor, Hogel and Davis, was constructed in 1907. It was originally built as a Merchants Bank, which was eventually absorbed by the Bank of Montreal in 1922. According to the Manitoba Historic Resources Branch, it was donated to the City of Brandon and served as the first public library from 1944-83. The city gave the structure to the Brandon Chamber of Commerce and, following major renovations, it officially reopened in 1986. It was designated as a Provincial Heritage Site in 1987.
The two-storey stone and brick building is an example of the Beaux-Arts Classical style, “highlighted by the box-like form, monumental proportions, and symmetry on the main (south) and west façades,” as stated in the MHAC report.
The interior is well-preserved, which includes the high ceiling of the open-floor banking hall, supported by Ionic columns with decorative plaster mouldings. Also inside is the oak-panelled manager’s office with the word “Manager” carved above the door, original frosted glass windows, and a marble inset fireplace with a carved oak surround.
The aging building has some rehabilitation needs on the exterior walls and roof, due to general deterioration.
“Rehabilitation is necessary to maintain structural integrity of the building,” states the MHAC report. “The property owner will rehabilitate the walls and roof in two phases. The entire project is expected to take two years to complete.”
A Municipal Heritage Site designation could help secure funding for the rehabilitation work that is needed, Coun. Jeff Harwood (University) pointed out, which would be great for downtown and the city as a whole.
A public hearing will be held on the topic prior to a designation being approved.
» jaustin@brandonsun.com
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