This two-storey building in Princes Street stands next door to the Caplen Building, it boasts a similar neo-classic design to the neighbouring building, but is less impressive in scale.
Little is known about the date of construction, architect and builder. The Hāwera Town Centre Heritage Inventory estimates that it was built between 1900 and 1910 - it must be after 1901 as it is not seen in the Auckland Weekly News photo of 'Caplen's Buildings'.
The heritage inventory states that the building was erected for Harry Caplen (of the Caplen Building) and Mr Cox for "their land agency". Others to use the building over the years include: Mr A.M. McSkimming (a tailor), Spratt & Matthews (lawyers) and James & J.W. Edmondston (barristers & solicitors) - it is these occupants after whom the building is named.
The building is the final one in the row of heritage buildings on Princes Street labelled by the writers of the heritage inventory as being of "national heritage importance".
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