Manitoba Municipal Heritage Site No. 123

 
 

Fowler Block
225 Elizabeth Avenue E,
Baldur

Fowler Block

Designation Date: April 11, 1995
Designation Authority: The R.M. of Argyle
Present Owner: privately owned

This building was constructed for Alex Fowler who arrived in Baldur in 1891 to operate the new facility for the Manitoba Elevator Company, where his father was president. By 1895, a newly married Alex purchased the saddlery business of C.W. Watson and by 1899 had commenced construction of this building. The west part of the main level was occupied by the saddlery business; the larger eastern section was rented to various merchants. In 1904 Alex became the community postmaster and for the next 31 years the town post office was located in the Fowler Block. The structure remained in the Fowler family until 1978 when it was sold to Earl and Joy Johnson.

The Fowler Block is an excellent example of the type of commercial block commonly constructed in southern Manitoba communities between 1890 and 1920. Like others of the type, the design is straightforward and attractive. The front façade is highlighted by vertical brick pilasters. The second storey windows feature segmental arches with limestone keystones. The interior similarly retains much of its original treatment, particularly the decorative pressed-tin ceiling.

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