Blain's Block

The cultural heritage value of 15-19 Main Street North is related to its design as a nineteenth century commercial building. It is one of the oldest surviving commercial blocks in Brampton, and a fine example of Italianate commercial architecture with classical features. 15-19 Main Street North is a three storey brick building divided into six bays with a bell cast mansard roof over the southern three bays and a flat roof over the northern end.

The rear wall is unusual because of its odd angle, which was built in this manner because it formed the back wall of the Etobicoke River bank. A door that was used to let water out of the building after any flooding also characterizes the rear wall; the door has since been bricked in.

The property also has historical or associative value as it reflects the work of Richard Blain, founder of Blain’s Hardware and a politician committed to public service in Brampton and Peel County. Blain’s Hardware, along with Harmsworth Paint and Wallpaper, are some of the City’s oldest stores. It is also believed that the building was home to Orange Hall and the Golden Star Lodge.