The Landmark Cafe

The Landmark Cafe is valued for its commercial influenced architectural style and for its role in the economic and social history of the Village of Victoria. It is believed the present building was constructed in approximately 1886, but it may have existed on the site as early as 1880. Meacham's Atlas of PEI shows a building on th site owned by Richard Lea.

The west elevation or front facade illustrates the typical commercial style with a central entrance and two large multi-paned storefront windows on either side of it. The cladding is wooden shingle and the upper storey features two - two over two - sash windows, topped by a steep gable roof. A transom light above the entrance remains along with decorative hood mouldings and pilasters.

Neil Penpraise (1851-1938) operated a general store on the site beginning in the 1890s. He also served as the village cobbler, repairing shoes from an addition at the back of the store. After 1945, Keith Boulter operated a meat market and general store from the property. In the 1960s, Annie and Ivan Craig ran a grocery store and post office on the site.

In 1989, it was purchased for use as a craft shop and later as a restaurant and named "The Landmark Cafe". Further additions have since been added to the back of the building to accommodate washrooms. A deck was also built on the front.

The Landmark Cafe remains a hub of social activity in the Village of Victoria. It contributes to the ambiance of Main Street as a visible reminder of the early economic history of the village.

Source: Culture and Heritage Division, PEI Department of Community and Cultural Affairs, Charlottetown, PE C1A 7N8

File #: 4310-20/V3