There was boundless optimism in Vancouver in 1889, when the city was only three years old and was expanding at an explosive rate. So Joseph Couture thought it was a good time to build a new, “first-class” hotel at Howe and Dunsmuir streets.
It was called Manor House, probably to try to give the impression that it was the kind of place blue bloods would stay.
“It is a large, commodious and fashionably built house, with all the most modern conveniences, specially adapted for the use of families and those desiring homelike accommodation,” said an ad in the Oct. 27, 1889, Vancouver News-Advertiser. “The house is supplied throughout with electrical bell service, speaking tubes, fire escapes, hot air, bathrooms, closets, electric and gas lights, and the best of ventilation.”
Manor House featured a posh dining room, a billiard room and a “double” parlour. There were also sitting rooms in the “tower” and a “pavilion” on the roof, which featured a “walking terrace.”
Translation: It was totally Victorian and over the top.
bit.ly/2GGSSaj via @VancouverSun
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