Primrose Lane

The building is valued for its commercial architectural style and for its association with the Profit family of Alberton.

John T. Profit (1846-1931) and his son, Charles, were harness makers who developed the renowned "Profit Collar" for horses. It had an innovative design and was comfortable for the animal to wear. John T. Profit also served as the local undertaker for more than thirty years. When automobiles began to replace horses as a means of transportation, he had the first gasoline tanks in Alberton. He also sold car accessories, carriages, gramophones and radio records. He was a member of the Board of Trade founded in 1903. He was a prominent member of the Masonic Order. Active in local politics, he served as a town councillor from 1915-1920 and was Mayor of Alberton from 1920 to 1921.

In 1919, his business suffered a devastating fire which destroyed the original two-storey gable roofed building. He soon rebuilt with the help of local builder, George Gard. In 1945, part of the building was converted into a liquor store. By 1961, Bill Profit, the grandson of John T., renovated the building and added two apartments to the second floor. His brother, Jim Profit, operated an electronics business named "J-PRO" until the 1980s.

In 1985, the West Prince Industrial Commission purchased the building. Since then it has been the home to a variety of businesses, including a clothing store, taxation centre, furniture store, and a florist and gift shop.

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

File #: 4310-20/A33