W.R. King Building (1874 - 1926)

The W.R. King building was located on the corner of Devon Street and Brougham Street. It was built in 1874 for the drapers, W.R. King & Sons, and was described as a "very commanding building...with three good-sized rooms upstairs...to be let as offices". (Taranaki Herald 19 December, 1874 p.2)

From 1916-1925 noted New Plymouth architect Thomas H. Bates had his business premises on the first floor. The upper windows show his name and business. His connection with Taranaki cricket is displayed in the advertisement announcing a forthcoming match between Canterbury's Plunket Shield team and Taranaki on January15 & 16, 1926.

The building was demolished in 1926 to make way for the 'King's Building', the impressive building that still stands on the prominent corner site. Bates moved into the newly built Empire/Victoria Building on King Street.