AboutGeoff Wickens Expertise I have a fairly vast knowledge of the history of The City of Vancouver, BC. All my knowledge has been learned through on-hands experience. I am apt to answer most any question in regards to the history of the city, the construction of its bridges and the history behind some of its buildings.
Experience I drove cab for 5 years and in that time gave numerous city tours with full historical backgrounds. I have a thirst for history and an appetite for knowledge.
Expert: Geoff Wickens Date: 10/21/2003 Subject: Stonework on Century House, Richards St.
Question Hi Geoff, not sure if this question is in your specific field or not, but your profile is definitely the closest fit.
I look out of my office window in Vancouver and can see stonework that comprises two winged beavers guarding a medievil looking tower. My question is what does this signify/ relate to. You can see a picture of what I'm talking about at http://www.seevancouverheritage.com/vhr/vhr01/5197-19a.JPG
It's at the top of the very top of the building. Not the greatest of pictures, but hopefully you can make it out.
Thanks a lot
Dave Pike
Answer Thanks for the question, David.
Century House was built in 1911 for the Canada Permanent Mortgage Corporation. The building was designed by J.S.D. Taylor, a Scottish architect. Canada Permanent operated at Century House until 1951. Since then, it has been home to an insurance company, a trade school, an antique store, a restaurant and a book store. Century House is a Class A heritage building.
The whole exterior is solid granite, except for two beavers and lighthouse (not a medievil tower) cast in concrete which crown the building.
I could not find any reference anywhere to the meaning of the beavers and the lighthouse, however, given the company for which this building was originally designed, it is my educated guess that this relates to Canada Permenant looking over the land and always wathing for things to come.
Thanks for your question, I hope that answers it.
If you have any other questions about the history of this great and beloved city, feel free to ask.
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