159 Lakeshore Rd E

History

Former Bank of Montreal. Originally the location of the first St. Jude’s Anglican Church which served Oakville for over 45 years until the congregation outgrew the church in 1879. The church was then sold to Samuel McGiffin who converted it into a hardware store until 1898 when the building was secured by the Merchant’s Bank. Eventually the bank was torn down and the existing building was constructed on the site, designed by Robert McGiffin. In 1922 the Merchant's Bank amalgamated with the Bank of Montreal.

The Town of Oakville’s account, reproduced from its heritage register.

Heritage attributes

Beaux Arts style, typical for many bank buildings during the early part of this century. Notable features include stone sills, brick voussoirs and keystones and large pilasters on the front façade.

The Town of Oakville’s description, reproduced from its heritage register.

What the status means

Both individually designated under Part IV and inside a Part V district.

Whether a specific alteration needs a heritage permit is the Town’s call; ask its heritage planning staff before starting work. See permits and by-laws.

Sources

Contains information licensed under the Open Government Licence — Town of Oakville. Licence. Register checked September 24, 2026; the Town’s record is authoritative.