The second CPR station at the foot of Granville Street didn’t make it until its 15th birthday. It was replaced in 1914.
From Vancouver Exposed: Searching for the City’s Hidden History
Even if you don’t love the architecture—and I am a fan of anything that’s gothic and grim and wears a turret—you’ve got to admit that the former Canadian Pacific station would be an amazing addition to our current landscape.
Designed by Edward Maxwell in the railway’s early Chateau style, the station dominated the foot of Granville Street with its two massive turrets—one round and one octagonal—and an arched entranceway made from Calgary limestone.
But all this gorgeousness didn’t save the building. Deemed too small for burgeoning Vancouver, the station was demolished in August 1914. It was replaced by the current Waterfront Station, which against all odds, continues to exist.
Fortunately, the New Westminster station was treated more kindly. It’s still at 800 Columbia, formerly a Keg and now operating as a Kelly O’Bryans Restaurant.
© Eve Lazarus, 2022
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