IOOF Building

19118 Centre Street

The IOOF building was the third building south of Main Street on the west side of Centre Street. 

Originally, the lodge room for the Mount Albert Independent Order of Odd Fellows (IOOF) was on the top floor and the main floor was divided into two shops.

The north part of the main floor was originally a tinsmith shop run by Sid Barrett.  Sid also operated a livery stable to the west of the building.

From 1932-1975 the Public Library was in this location.  In 1975, the Library moved to the basement of the Community Centre on Main Street and the IOOF lodge took over the room for their own use.

The south part of the main floor was a business shop.  Shopkeepers included John Haig, Charles Wilson and Harry Spang.

Around 1890 a farmer’s market was opened in the basement.  According to the ERA Banner, "It was a splendid market with farmers coming from miles around to sell their goods".  In 1906, the paper hailed, "the market was one of the best markets north of Toronto with four regular buyers.  People travelled from 8 to 10 miles to purchase the wares".  The market closed in 1948.

At one time an old fire truck was stored in the basement.  In 1967, the building was remodeled.  In 2000, the building was sold.

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