This building at the end of Aylmer at Riverside Dr. has always caught my eye. (excuse the old photo, but it is after labour day now… It’s coming :)) I think I always liked the painted sign over the door.
Going through the microfilm at the library, I came across this ad from July, 1936. Now I always assumed that Best Roofing, was the name because they were thought they were the best… Looking at the ad, it would appear that there was a Mr. Best.
The only City Directory, I had handy was my copy of the 1923-24 edition. In that it lists a Lawrence J.H. Best, as being a clerk at the Royal Bank. His house was on Dougall, just south of the Dougall School. I cruised by to grab a photo to complete the story, and the house is in great shape. It probably doesn’t look too different from when the Best’s lived there.
I’m not sure when they closed, but I’ve lived in the area for the last 7 years, and it’s been closed as long as I’ve been around. I’m not sure what, if anything goes on there these days.
neat! i’ve always wondered about that place myself, thanks andrew!
can you tell me what’s up with all the second story doors to nowhere on older buildings?
is there usually some kind of I-beam that can slide out the open door with a winch or something for moving heavy crap to upper floors??
Was this not an equipment rental at one time or was the equipment rental next door?
Guido, the equipment rental place is just to the south, it’s still there.
This article is appreciated! I love reading about the long ago buildings/businesses/people of the everyday working world from the early part of this era. It makes us remember that there was an important age where people lived, worked, had kids a house or apt. and had a life!!
I am pleasantly surprised to see that Mr. Best’s one time business building is still there and painted over. No signs to tell who uses it…. Perhaps its someone’s home?