Object Record
Images
Metadata
Catalog Number |
BE2001.2.1 |
Object Name |
Coat, Evening |
Description |
A purple velvet evening coat with a hood. The sleeves are puffed and the back of the jacket is cut to have a train. It also has an a-line skirt with a large button to close. The label reads: 'Imported from France by the Great Fur & Specialty Shop of Eastern Canada, Devlins, The R.J. Devlin Co. Limited, Ottawa, Under Vice Regal Patronage, Under the Patronage of His Royal Highness the Duke of Connaught.' |
Year Range from |
1895 |
Year Range to |
1900 |
Dimensions |
H-141 W-152 cm |
History |
The R.J.Devlin department store was located on Sparks Street in Ottawa. In the 1860s it was initially a high-end furrier. It grew into a carriage trade department store. Initially, Devlin's building was called the Carleton Chambers and was a modern fireproof structure. The corner windows were noted for their topical displays such as in 1924 the window commemorated the Geological Survey of Canada mapping of the arctic coastline. RJ Devlin was known as somewhat eccentric and frequently published angry letters about the deplorable road conditions in the City. He was also known for humorous notices. In one instance he stated that his business was located "in the rut" on Sparks Street and suggested that if customers "came to the opposite shore, I will send a scow over to ferry them across." The Henry Morgan Co. of Montreal acquired Devlin's in 1951. Morgan's was later bought out by the Hudson's Bay Company. Reference: Spark's Department Stores: Devlin. 6th July 2012 by Midcentury Modernist Urbsite (website) http://urbsite.blogspot.com/2012/07/sparks-departed-department-stores.html |