Imagine stepping back in time to Montreal in 1845. It is then that the story of The Bay truly begins.
The first store opened in the Old Port. It was started by Henry Morgan a Scottish immigrant. Back then it was known as Henry Morgan and Co. The Bay’s roots are firmly planted in Montreal’s rich commercial soil.
Fast forward to 1891. The store moved to its present location on St. Catherine Street. This transition followed the electrification of the rail and tramway system. This shows how The Bay always moved with progress.
The original store was named after Henry Morgan. He revolutionized retail with catalogue sales after the war in 1874. In 1881, the store was located in front of Phillips Square and called Colonial House. Morgan was an innovator.
In 1960 a major shift occurred. The Hudson’s Bay Company acquired all of Morgan’s stores across Canada. This included locations in Toronto Ottawa Hamilton and Montreal. The Bay expanded its reach significantly.
Then in 1972 the downtown Montreal store got a new name. It was renamed La Baie which translates to The Bay in English. This renaming marked a new chapter in its identity.
The architecture of The Bay is also steeped in history. The first store built between 1890 and 1891 was designed by John Peace Hill. Hill was an American Architect. The original four story building was designed in Neo-Romanesque style. It used red sandstone imported from Scotland giving it a distinct look.
An additional floor was added in 1902 facing Aylmer Street. In 1923, a replica addition of eight stories was added facing Union Street. This careful expansion barely changed the original design.
In 1964 there was an addition to The Bay on De Maisonneuve Boulevard. This was done by architects Bolton Ellewood and Aimers. In 1966 the basement level was connected to the Metro.
The building stands in the Phillips Square area. The City of Montreal designated this area as historic. The Bay is an exceptional example of Romanesque architecture. Its red sandstone built came all the way from Scotland.
The 1923 addition shows high architectural skill. The repetition of pillars and arched windows is seamless. This maintained the building’s original character.
The Bay’s history mirrors Canadian identity. Its appeal connects with British French Acadian and Inuit people. It also speaks to Aboriginal groups across 300 trading posts.
Today The Bay continues to evolve. It honors its past. It also embraces the future. As you explore its aisles remember the layers of history.
The Bay is more than a store. It is a landmark in Montreal.