Historical information

Bacchus Marsh Express of 7 November 1874 reports that this building was designed and erected by Mr Jeremiah Ryan for Mr H. G. Salter, draper. Mr Salter gave the name of "Hall of Commerce" to the building, a term in common usage at the time. Following the fire of 1928 which destroyed the upper floor of the building, the ground floor was refurbished and new businesses set up. Among these were Percy Drury's Fruitery and Confectionery and Rogers' Bakery.

Physical description

This photograph is of the former Hall of Commerce, located on the corner of Main and Graham Streets. (For further information see VC729.) It shows the businesses operating in this building after the fire of 1928 which destroyed the upper floor. The streetscape shows a series of four businesses fronting Main Street. From L to R: G.H. Anderson. Store; Baker and Pastrycook; Confectioner and Fruiterer; The Central. Teas & Luncheons. On two awnings suspended from The Central name sign are the words "Teas & Luncheons" and "The Central". Outside the second shop can be seen various portable advertising signs, such as those used to advertise the latest news. One man reading a newspaper stands in front of this shop; five more men are ranged along the frontage, one wearing the apron commonly worn by greengrocers. Above the entrance to the tea rooms is the sign "CAFE". Other signs on the windows read "Dining Room", "Luncheons. Grills. Home Made Pies. Scones." On the corner of the shop is a two-sided sign reading " Home Made Pies, Cakes & Scones. Cool Drinks. Ice Cream." A delivery vehicle stands outside Anderson's store. Both pavement and street are made.
On the back of the photo in pencil: Main St. Cr Graham St. (Hall of Commerce). Anderson's Border Store. Newsagency. Bakery (Rogers). Fruiterer (P. Drury). The Central.