The Bank of Hamilton’s location on Main Street was strategically chosen along a block surrounded by other banks looking to profit off Winnipeg’s growth in 1897. The Bank of Hamilton fit right into Bankers’ Row.

In 1911, the Canadian Bank of Commerce finished construction of a massive banking hall next door to the Bank of Hamilton. This construction caused significant settlement damage on the Bank of Hamilton. Though not discovered until 1915, instead of repairing the damage, the Bank of Hamilton opted to demolish and rebuild.

Work began in 1916, though construction faced delays due to material shortages caused by World War One. Once the bank finally opened in 1918, it stood out on Main Street. The steel-framed banking hall towered over many of its neighbours, and Italianate detailing on the facade made a stately impression.

Architect John Atchison’s Chicago style design boasted a grand arched entrance with a detailed keystone, welcoming visitors with expensive Botticino marble walls on the interior and an antique gold ceiling.

One of the last grand office towers constructed during Winnipeg’s boom period, the Bank of Hamilton was one of the first buildings to receive historic designation from the City of Winnipeg in 1979.