Formerly the Commercial Hotel, this 3-storey 19th century structure stands on the west side of York Street between Queen and King Streets.
Heritage Value
The heritage value of this building rests in its history as a hotel, and in its conversion to commercial space reflective of the changing nature and character of York Street. During the latter decades of the 19th century, York Street was known as a hotel street, but its identity would change as commercial interests overtook the area.
The Commercial Hotel and Long’s Hotel, located on the next block at the northeast corner of York and Brunswick Streets, cornered the hotel market at the west end of the Fredericton town plat. However, by the second decade of the 20th century, both hotels would close, perhaps from the competition of the preponderance of hotels along Queen Street.
The Commercial Hotel first opened during the 1860s, and was operated by a number of proprietors. John McCoy, from St. Mary’s (Devon), was one of the last managers to operate this highly successful hotel. In 1923, the E.M. Young Hardware store moved into this building. Earle M. Young, who resided at Devon, moved to Fredericton to attend Business College. Before establishing his business, Mr. Young enlisted in the army during the First World War. Part of the 67th Battery, Young served in Russia. After the conclusion of the War, Young was a member of the 7th Machine Gunner Battalion, and served as Captain of the 104th RCA after this unit became a field battery. Mr. Young was a member of both the Fredericton Branch of the Canadian Legion and the Fredericton Garrison Officers’ Mess.
Mr. Young died tragically in a drowning accident in 1939, but he left a lasting legacy. The E.M. Young Hardware Store became a fixture at this location, remaining in operation for more than half a century.
Character-Defining Elements
The character-defining elements related to this building located at 81-87 York Street include:
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3-storey brick construction
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Flat roof
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Large, rectangular windows on upper floors
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Large display windows on ground floor