Lonsdale Avenue in North Vancouver has been a bustling commercial and cultural hub for over a century. The street and its surrounding area have been home to a myriad of businesses, each contributing to the vibrant tapestry of the community.
Here are 50 historic businesses that once graced Lonsdale Avenue and its vicinity, each with a brief description:
- North Vancouver Electric Railway Company (1906-1947): This company ran the streetcar system along Lonsdale Avenue, providing essential transportation for residents and visitors, facilitating the growth of the community.
- Burrard Dry Dock (1906-1992): Located at the foot of Lonsdale Avenue, this shipbuilding and repair facility played a crucial role in Canada’s maritime history, contributing to both World Wars and the local economy.
- North Vancouver Ferry Company (1900-1938): With its terminal at the foot of Lonsdale Avenue, this ferry service was a vital link between North Vancouver and downtown Vancouver, shaping the area’s development.
- Green & Green Grocers (1920s-1950s): A family-owned grocery store on Lonsdale Avenue known for its fresh produce and personalized service, making it a beloved community staple.
- Lonsdale Tailors (1930s-1960s): This tailor shop on Lonsdale Avenue offered custom clothing and alterations, renowned for its craftsmanship and attention to detail.
- North Star Ice & Cold Storage (1920s-1960s): Located near Lonsdale Avenue, this company provided essential ice and refrigeration services, playing a key role in the community before widespread home refrigeration.
- Lonsdale Leather Goods (1940s-1970s): Specializing in high-quality leather products, this shop on Lonsdale Avenue was known for its craftsmanship and contributed to the avenue’s diverse retail scene.
- Central Hotel (1912-1972): A landmark hotel on Lonsdale Avenue, the Central Hotel was a hub of hospitality and social gatherings, reflecting the area’s growth as a commercial center.
- North Vancouver Brewery (1905-1918): Located near Lonsdale Avenue, this brewery was known for its local beers and ales, contributing to the area’s early industrial development.
- Lonsdale Cinema (1935-1986): An iconic movie theater on Lonsdale Avenue, the Lonsdale Cinema was a popular entertainment venue, showcasing the latest films and fostering a sense of community.
- Lonsdale Bookstore (1950s-1980s): A cherished local bookstore, this establishment on Lonsdale Avenue was a cultural cornerstone, offering a wide selection of books and fostering a love for reading.
- The Lonsdale Bakery (1930s-1970s): Known for its freshly baked goods, this bakery on Lonsdale Avenue was a beloved fixture, providing daily comforts and contributing to the avenue’s vibrant retail scene.
- Lonsdale Hardware (1940s-1980s): This hardware store on Lonsdale Avenue was a go-to destination for tools and home improvement supplies, reflecting the community’s growth and evolving needs.
- Lonsdale Barber Shop (1930s-1980s): A traditional barber shop that offered haircuts and shaves, it was a place for social interaction and grooming, embodying the personal touch of local businesses.
- The Red Lion Inn (1910-1950): An historic inn and pub, the Red Lion Inn on Lonsdale Avenue was a hub for lodging, food, and drink, serving as a social center and reflecting the area’s hospitality tradition.
- Lonsdale Photo Studio (1940s-1970s): A photography studio that captured important moments for families and individuals, contributing to the community’s memories and history.
- The Empress Theatre (1912-1958): A beloved movie theater that provided entertainment and served as a cultural landmark on Lonsdale Avenue, showcasing the evolving tastes of the community.
- Lonsdale Fish Market (1950s-1980s): A popular spot for fresh seafood, this market on Lonsdale Avenue was a testament to the area’s connection to maritime industries and local culinary preferences.
- Lonsdale Shoe Repair (1940s-1980s): This business was known for its craftsmanship in shoe repairs, reflecting the era’s emphasis on durability and quality.
- The Queen’s Hotel (1908-1975): Another historic hotel, the Queen’s Hotel on Lonsdale Avenue offered accommodation and a welcoming atmosphere, contributing to Lonsdale Avenue’s reputation as a commercial and social hub.
- Lonsdale Florist (1950s-1990s): A charming flower shop that provided beautiful arrangements, adding color and life to the avenue and marking special occasions for the community.
- Lonsdale Furniture (1940s-1980s): Offering a range of home furnishings, this store on Lonsdale Avenue catered to the community’s evolving tastes and needs, contributing to the area’s retail diversity.
- The Maple Leaf Theatre (1930s-1960s): A smaller movie theater that provided an intimate viewing experience, reflecting the era’s entertainment options and community preferences.
- Lonsdale Cycle Shop (1950s-1990s): Catering to cycling enthusiasts, this shop was a testament to the area’s active lifestyle and the growing popularity of cycling as a mode of transportation.
- Lonsdale Delicatessen (1960s-1990s): Known for its variety of meats, cheeses, and specialty foods, this deli on Lonsdale Avenue was a favorite for its quality products and contribution to the local culinary scene.
- Lonsdale Laundry (1920s-1960s): A vital service for the community, Lonsdale Laundry provided laundry and dry cleaning services, ensuring that residents always looked their best.
- Lonsdale Paint & Wallpaper (1950s-1980s): This store was a go-to destination for homeowners looking to refresh their spaces, offering a wide range of paint colors and wallpaper designs.
- The Lonsdale Hotel (1910-1970): Another historic hotel, The Lonsdale Hotel provided comfortable lodging and a welcoming atmosphere for travelers and locals alike, contributing to the area’s hospitality industry.
- Lonsdale Stationery (1940s-1980s): A staple for office supplies and stationery, Lonsdale Stationery was a key resource for businesses and individuals in the area.
- The Royal Theatre (1920s-1950s): An early movie theater on Lonsdale Avenue, The Royal Theatre entertained generations of North Vancouverites with films and live performances.
- Lonsdale Meat Market (1930s-1970s): A trusted source for quality meats, Lonsdale Meat Market was a favorite among locals for its selection and service.
- Lonsdale Coffee Shop (1950s-1980s): A cozy spot for coffee and conversation, Lonsdale Coffee Shop was a beloved gathering place for the community.
- The Lonsdale Inn (1912-1960): Yet another historic hotel, The Lonsdale Inn offered lodging and dining services, serving as a cornerstone of the area’s hospitality scene.
- Lonsdale Drugstore (1940s-1980s): A vital part of the community, Lonsdale Drugstore provided pharmaceuticals and healthcare products, ensuring the well-being of residents.
- The Lonsdale Bakery & Café (1930s-1970s): A combination of bakery and café, this establishment offered freshly baked goods and a cozy spot for meals and snacks.
- Lonsdale Sporting Goods (1950s-1990s): Catering to the athletic needs of the community, Lonsdale Sporting Goods offered equipment and apparel for a variety of sports.
- Lonsdale Toy Store (1960s-1980s): A wonderland for children, Lonsdale Toy Store was filled with toys, games, and gifts, making it a favorite destination for families.
- Lonsdale Jewelry Shop (1940s-1980s): Specializing in fine jewelry and watches, Lonsdale Jewelry Shop was a go-to spot for special gifts and personal adornments.
- Lonsdale Flower Market (1950s-1990s): A vibrant marketplace for flowers and plants, Lonsdale Flower Market brightened homes and special occasions with its beautiful offerings.
- Lonsdale Antique Shop (1960s-1990s): A treasure trove of vintage finds, Lonsdale Antique Shop was a favorite among collectors and those looking for unique home decor.
- Lonsdale Pet Store (1970s-1990s): Offering supplies and companions for pet owners, Lonsdale Pet Store was a key resource for the area’s animal lovers.
- Lonsdale Bakery & Deli (1950s-1980s): Combining a bakery with a delicatessen, this shop offered a range of baked goods, meats, and cheeses, catering to the culinary needs of the community.
- Lonsdale Record Shop (1960s-1980s): A haven for music lovers, Lonsdale Record Shop provided a wide selection of vinyl records, tapes, and CDs, serving as a hub for the area’s music enthusiasts.
- Lonsdale Travel Agency (1950s-1990s): Assisting residents with their vacation plans and travel arrangements, Lonsdale Travel Agency was a key resource for exploring the world beyond North Vancouver.
- Lonsdale Beauty Salon (1940s-1980s): A place for pampering and self-care, Lonsdale Beauty Salon offered hair styling, manicures, and other beauty services, contributing to the community’s well-being.
- Lonsdale Shoe Store (1950s-1980s): Specializing in footwear for all occasions, Lonsdale Shoe Store provided quality shoes for the entire family, ensuring comfort and style for its customers.
- Lonsdale Gift Shop (1960s-1990s): Offering a wide range of gifts and souvenirs, Lonsdale Gift Shop was a go-to destination for finding the perfect present for any occasion.
- Lonsdale Fabric Store (1950s-1980s): Catering to the sewing and crafting needs of the community, Lonsdale Fabric Store offered a variety of fabrics, patterns, and sewing supplies.
- Lonsdale Children’s Clothing (1960s-1990s): Specializing in apparel for the younger set, Lonsdale Children’s Clothing provided stylish and durable clothing for babies, toddlers, and children.
Each of these businesses played a unique role in shaping the history and culture of Lonsdale Avenue, leaving a legacy that continues to influence the area today. They not only served the practical needs of the community but also contributed to its social fabric and identity, making Lonsdale Avenue a vibrant and dynamic part of North Vancouver’s history.