1913 – Whalen Building, Port Arthur, Thunder Bay, Ontario
Architect: Brown & Vallance
When completed it was the tallest structure in the area the time – the 8 storey tall Whalen Building was built in the style of Chicago skyscraper and was said to be the “finest between Toronto and Winnipeg.” It is faced with steel and terra cotta and has a granite base. The east, south, and west sides are nearly identical. Of particular interest are the faces, lions, shields and foliage in the terra cotta. The interior of the ground floor main hallway is done in terra cotta and marble, a profusion of Gothic and classical detailing. Now Ontario Hydro.
Published March 8, 2026
