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The area of New Westminster destroyed by the fire on Thursday morning was built in 1904.

Known as the E L Lewis building, it was one of the many buildings that made up the historic downtown core.

The building was iconic for its association with the Copp family. Copp’s Shoes was established in 1925/6, and the store had been in the family for three generations. It was first opened by John Percy Copp, then taken over by his daughter and son-in-law, and then his grandson. It closed down last year and was turned into a bridal shop.

With the help of the City of New Westminster Archives, we took a look at that area of New Westminster through the years.

On Columbia Street. Date unknown. Credit: New Westminster Archive. Looking down Columbia Street. Date unknown. Credit: New Westminster Archive. 194- " Photograph shows a view of Columbia Street looking east towards the Pattullo Bridge. Businesses visible include David Spencer Ltd. Copp's Shoes and the Sally Shop are on the corners at Sixth Street. Credit: New Westminster Archive. 193- : Photograph shows Ed Stride and Sid Wright taking pictures on Columbia Street. Copp's Shoes is visible across the street. Credit: New Westminster Archives. On Columbia Street. Date unknown. Credit: New Westminster Archive. On Columbia Street. Date unknown. Credit: New Westminster Archive. Story continues below advertisement On Columbia Street. Date unknown. Credit: New Westminster Archive.

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