05/28/2026
BLAST FROM THE PAST – A Glimpse Back at the 1940s
NEW Bellevue Hotel Opened - 1949
Did you know the iconic Bellevue Hotel on First Avenue first opened in 1890?
Destroyed by fire in 1922, the hotel was rebuilt the following year and then replaced in 1949 by an impressive four-storey Art Deco structure constructed by its new owners - the Fletcher family.
Opened on July 27th, 1949, the hotel featured 34 modern guest rooms, a cafe, a dining room, and a massive 400-seat licensed beverage parlour.
Take a close look at the posted image:
• On the Far Left: The lobby entrance featured a curved, molded desk inspired by the famous Hotel New Yorker in New York City.
• In the Middle: Separate entrances for men and women. BC law required segregated beer parlour entrances until 1964!
• On the Far Right: A trendy "Coffee House," complete with black-topped counters, red leatherette stools, and cozy booths.
• The Roof: A prominent neon sign boldly advertising the hotel and its beer parlour.
Today, this historic Mission landmark has been redeveloped into affordable housing and amenities for seniors.
Own a piece of history: Message us or email [email protected] to purchase a digital or custom-size reproduction of this historic photo. Fees charged directly help sustain volunteer-based operation.
