The original portion of this shop (the narrow north-south gable at rear), was constructed for Nellie Roberts, wife of James Annear Roberts, in 1895. The shop was originally operated by Charles N. Smith and his wife, with Nellie later operating the shop on her own, before being joined by James about 1898.
About 1900 the building was extended and the present front villa style front portion of the shop and living quarters constructed; the architect was most likely James Sanderson. The old 1895 shop was incorporated into the new building, and was relocated further to the west at this time (now forming the portion of the building with the old loading bay door). The window hood, Chicago window (Eliot Street), loading door and shop window (Lemon Street) are particular features of this building, and give it special historical character.
The shop achieved legendary status according to a report in the Taranaki Daily News, and for many years it was known as 'Teapot (or T-Pot) Roberts Grocers' (TDN 14 July 2012). Roberts is said to have promoted his tea service by placing a large teapot over the shop verandah.
'Teapot' Roberts died on 3 November 1917 after a lengthy illness (Taranaki Herald 3 November 1917). The business was bought by Arthur Chatterton (TDN 23 July 1925), who then moved on to build the Victoria Boarding House in Liardet Street.
The shop was later renamed "Whittaker's Four Square Store", with Mr and Mrs Whittaker operating the shop for 27 years until they retired in 1977 (Daily News 3 June 1977). The store was then sold and was later known as the Kiwi Dairy. It has now closed and the building has an uncertain future. (2023)
See Taranaki Land Deeds Index I4, page 234 & I13, page 699
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