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The Empire Theatre, the first on Grote Street opened on 10 April 1909 in premises previously occupied by three two-storey shops. Designed by A Barnham Black, the theatre initially featured vaudeville acts and moving pictures. It continued to operate as a picture theatre until 1948. In 1952 it was acquired by People Stores Ltd and became part of its retail complex extending to Gouger Street.
The Arch was a gathering place for crowds welcoming the visiting Prince of Wales.
The foundation stone was laid by Alexander Hay on the 7 February 1865 and the church officially opened on the 12 April 1867. The building served as a memorial to Reverend Thomas Quinton Stow. Stow, the first Congregational Minister in the colony.
