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L. G. West, Plan of Shops and Residence for F. G. Hilton

Object type

Plans

Description: This plan for a two-storey, brick building combining two shops, domestic quarters and outbuildings was designed by L. G. West. The premises, built for F. G. Hilton, were the first brick shops constuctred in Marton. The Wanganui Chronicle reported: "They stand on one of the best sites in town, and on a section running from Broadway to Stewart Street, and present a most city-like appearance. They have a frontage of 33 feet to Broadway, with windows of the best plate glass the back ground being of mirror plate. The shop on the left is to be occupied by the enterprising owner of the building (Mr F. G. Hilton), watch-maker, and that on the right by Mr A. K. McGregor, the well-known saddler. Attached to Mr Hilton's shop is a commodious dwelling of seven rooms ... Mr Hilton is pleased with the way Messrs Zajouskowski Bros. and their foreman bricklayer (Mr Hardman) have executed the work, as also with Mr J. G. Campbell, the painter and decorator. The shop was opened on Saturday evening with by far the largest display ever shown in the town, and the place was visited by a very large number of townfolk. The proprietor is to be congratulated on his enterprise and confidence in the town in which he lives." (22 December 1902).