Galvin’s Flower Shop, at the corner of Boylston and Fairfield Streets in Boston, on April 5, 1912. Image courtesy of the City of Boston Archives.
The building in 2015:
This building dates back to 1897, and although it is still standing it has been heavily modified over the years. Originally a conservatory with a greenhouse in the back, this building was used as a flower shop when the first photo was taken. Its appearance was somewhat altered in 1924, but the most extensive renovation came in the 1970s, when it became a bank. Some of the basic architectural features were retained on the facade, including the arched windows and the oval window over the corner entrance, but I’m not sure how much is actually original; the two arches are much closer together in the first photo, so I suspect the 1970s renovation probably removed the original facade and then rebuilt it along similar lines. The building to the right of the flower shop is also still standing today, and likewise has had some substantial alterations. It was built in 1902, and at some point a third floor was added, along with expanding the facade outward a few feet. At this point, it is hard to tell that it is even the same building from the 1912 photo.
I have a similar original picture of Galvin’s but I believe it is earlier than your 1925 picture. There are horse drawn carriages on both Boylston and Fairfield St.
My step-father’s grandfather, Thomas Galvin, was the founder of the original business and was the owner until he passed–I think in the 1920’s?
My wife and I are planning a revisit to Boston next year and would like to pass it onto you. Am sure you can find a place for it. I was originally from Boston and lived on Mt. Vernon St during my childhood and attended Prince School on corner of Exeter Street/Newbury St…LONG time ago. Have spent the last 60+ years in US Navy and Merchant Marine. Now reside in La Quinta, Ca. Left me know if you are interested in print.
Yes, I would definitely be interested. It would make for a nice addition to this post, to have an even earlier photo of the site. I will email you with my contact information.
I would love an older picture of the building. May I contact you?