This two-storey timber building was built in 1902 for Messrs. Archibald Clark & Sons. It was designed by Frank Messenger and the contractor was Mr Campbell.
The building was occupied by a succession of drapers, with the first occupant being William Pellew, who moved in during early June 1902, and remained there until 1909. The London Millenery Company occupied the building from 1909 until 1915; R. O. Goddin from 1915 until 1918; and Henry Bacon from 1918 until soon after the conclusion of the Second World War.
According to records in the Fred Butler collection (Puke Ariki ARC2007-73), Empire Frocks moved into the building in October 1953 and were still there in 1995 at the time of the NPDC CBD Heritage Inventory.
NPDC hold records that indicate alterations were carried out in 1945 for Mr H.M. Bacon. It was known as Bacon's Building for many years and this name can be seen on the outside of the building in the linked photograph taken in the 1950s.
A recent restoration has greatly improved its streetscape value.
See Taranaki Land Deeds Index I3, page 408
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