1909 – Traders Bank of Canada, Main Street, Winnipeg

Shortlived bank headquartered in Toronto that was created by Dominion statute in April 1884 to 1912. In 1912, the Traders Bank was acquired by the Royal Bank of Canada.

“Another structure which forms a link in the chain of Winnipeg’s financial houses is the Trade Bank Building on Main Street, a short distance south of the old Post Office. It is a three storey building — originally having stores on the ground floor — that has been remodelled for banking and office purposes and made interesting both architecturally and in interior arrangement. The front is built of Tyndall stone, which is quarried a few miles south of the city. It is a peculiarly beautiful stone of whitish grey color with a brown veining, similar to a maple leaf, which works about like Portland or Indiana stone, but which, owing to pockets or voids, is not reliable to work with a rubbed surface — better results being obtained by tooling, crandling or cross tooth chiseling. The lower story of the facade consists of five arched doors and windows, divided off by Ionic columns, the upper portion of the building being simple and direct in its treatment, with the panels above the third story windows having effectively carved wreaths standing out from the stone in has relief. Access to the banking room and to the hallway leading to the offices above is obtained through cast iron entrances having copper doors fitted with bronze kick and pu.sh plates. The public space in the banking room is so arranged as to provide the maximum counter space. The floor is of marble mosaic, while the counters are of Vermont marble, with Verdantique trimmings and polished bronze grilles. Ample provision is made for a ladies banking room, in a space to the right of entrance. The vault equipment is of the most approved character and tables in the windows of the main banking room affords sufficient bulk head to adequately light the offices with basement. The structure was remodelled according to designs of Architect F. S. Baker, of Toronto, and the Bank contemplates the use of the building as their principal Winnipeg branch, until some time in the future when they propose to erect a permanent banking building along model lines.”
Construction, December 1909

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