Humboldt's Historic Sites

Willkommen Centre

601 Main Street

Merchants Bank of Canada
The Merchants Bank of Canada was established in Humboldt in January 1914. In March 1920 a branch at Humboldt was planned for construction in the spring, but was awaiting approval from head office. Tenders were received in June 1920 and construction began soon after. The tender was for a 25 foot by 60 foot structure, two storeys, full sized basement, solid red brick construction, two vaults and a fireplace. The main floor was to be occupied by the bank with the second floor as living quarters for the staff. The Merchants Bank of Canada remained here until it was taken over by the Bank of Montreal in March 1922.

Bank of Montreal
The Bank of Montreal used this building from April 1922 until it closed in March 1931. The reason stated in the local newspaper was insufficient business. The building was vacant until the Canadian Bank of Commerce purchased it.

Canadian Bank of Commerce
The Canadian Bank of Commerce purchased the building in 1932. Additions were made to the building in 1948 and 1964. The branch became part of the Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (CIBC) in June 1961. The CIBC moved to the building next door in October 1989.

Willkommen Centre
The Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce donated the building to the municipality in 1989 and the Willkommen Centre opened in this location later that year.

Business Timeline
1920 - 1922   Merchants Bank of Canada
1922 - 1931   Bank of Montreal
1931 - 1961   Canadian Bank of Commerce
1961 - 1989   Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce
1989 -           Willkommen Centre