Morrison Block

The Morrison Block has value for its architectural design and construction, and for its association with a number of representative Kelowna businesses and entrepreneurs.

The architectural value is found in its being a good example of the simplified Victorian Italianate style, similar to the slightly earlier building next door at 339-347 Bernard Avenue. The building also has value for having constructed built in 1908 by Henry W. Raymer, who came to Kelowna in 1892, built many of the City's early commercial buildings, and became the City's first mayor upon its incorporation in 1905. It is built of rusticated concrete blocks, an early use of that material. The building was recently rehabilitated, including extensive new work, but retains the original character.

The building's historical value is seen in its being representative of the second period of intensive development in Kelowna's downtown core, as well as for its association with a succession of hardware stores and other enterprises that represent well the evolution of the community's original commercial area. It was developed by Robert F. Morrison, who came to Kelowna in 1904, served as Kelowna's first city clerk, and established Morrison-Thompson Hardware, in partnership with J.N. Thompson (a Glenmore developer and orchardist). The Morrison-Thompson Hardware Ltd. operated on the ground floor until the 1930s, and the upper floor was used for offices. The retail level continued to feature a hardware store until the 1950s under other names - the Kelowna Hardware Co. Ltd. in 1938, and Mc & Mc Hardware (McLennan & McFeely) by 1942. About 1958 the hardware store was replaced by Sally Shops Ltd., which sold women's clothing. The building is currently occupied by Doc Willoughby's Restaurant and Pub, representing the recent increase in food-service businesses along Bernard Avenue as this becomes more of an entertainment and service district.