Fernie & Elk Valley Culture Guide Issue 4 - Spring 2017 | Page 14

FERNIE’S HERITAGE BUILDINGS – A
Downtown Walking Tour CONT’D
10   ISIS THEATRE
531 2nd Avenue | Now in use
as Nevados
In 1910, Wm. Eschwig began
construction of the building next to
his Northern Hotel. Known initially
as Eschwing’s Hall, it was remodeled
and opened as the Isis Theatre in 1911.
The theatre was again remodeled in
1930 and reopened as the Orpheum
Theatre. Moving pictures entertained
Fernie residents here until 1949
when the Orpheum was bought by
Sam Rossell, proprietor of the Vogue
Theatre. At that time, it was agreed
there was not enough business for two
theatres and the Orpheum closed. The
Orpheum is fondly remembered by
Fernie oldtimers as the site of Saturday
afternoon entertainment.
11   FERNIE CARTAGE COMPANY
701 2nd Avenue | Now in use as Urban
Settler and private residences
Unlike many businesses in Fernie’s
Historic Downtown, the Fernie Cartage
Company rebuilt its livery using
rubblestone from the banks of the Elk
River, rather than brick, following the
1908 Great Fire, making it unique
in downtown Fernie. For many years
before automobiles were commonly
used, the company delivered milk,
coal, and other goods with a fleet of
horse-drawn drays. In the 1920s, it was
“The Up-To-Date Garage,” servicing a
number of makes of early automobiles,
and owned by prominent Italian
entrepreneur, Al Rizzuto.
12   FERNIE SECONDARY
SCHOOL
901 2nd Ave | Now in use as
901 Fernie & Spa 901
The Fernie Secondary School operated
here for 89 years from 1909–1998.
Early photographs show that the
original façade looked much as it
does today, however it was covered
with stucco from 1978 until the time
of the renovations in 2006. It was
then that Parastone developed the
site; revitalizing the original school
and gymnasium and adding 2 new
condominium buildings. Inside, the 16ft
ceilings, craftsman finishes, and granite
fittings make this one of Fernie’s most
sought after properties, while the
award-winning 6,600sq ft Spa 901
offers the ultimate in urban relaxation.
Be sure to enjoy Historic Downtown’s local cafés, boutique shopping and cultural
attractions (see attraction listings, P8). Visit working artists and artisans in their
studios (see gallery listings, P24) and soak in the atmosphere of a town rich in
history and heritage.
14