127 Grafton Street

The heritage value of 127 Grafton Street lies in its association with the commercial history of Charlottetown, its Italianate influenced architecture, and its role in supporting the streetscape.

Prior to its construction in 1897, a wooden building stood on the 127 Grafton Street site. In 1896, a brick building was constructed next door to 127 Grafton Street for Daniel Gordon of the haberdashery firm, Gordon & McLellan. It is possible that Gordon also had 127 Grafton Street built. The local architect, C.B. Chappell designed both Italianate influenced commercial buildings.

The choice of the Italianate influenced commercial building style was a popular one in the late 19th Century. It was considered more durable and fireproof than the wooden structures it invariably replaced. The design was also more decorative, being reminiscent of the Venetian arcades of the Renaissance period. 127 Grafton Street remains one of the City's examples of this style.

The use of the building has remained commercial throughout its history. Originally, Mark Wright and Company, a furniture maker and retailer occupied the building. Local directories and historic photographs reveal that later occupants included Haszard & Moore and Maritime Stationers. The building currently houses offices, retail and gallery space. In the late 1970s and early 1980s, the Confederation Court Mall was constructed and eventually 127 Grafton Street was joined to that complex. As one of several 19th Century buildings on this historic block, it helps support the Grafton Street streetscape.

Sources: Heritage Office, City of Charlottetown Planning Department, PO Box 98, Charlottetown, PE C1A 7K2

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