475 Frontiere St – The site of many Hemmingford Businessess for over 135 years

by Shirley Simpson with Andy Latour

475 Frontiere St. began as the Wark Hotel in the late 1800’s and then in the early 1900’s changed ownership to the Orr Hotel. In 1946 Lyle G. Simpson replaced the old Hotel with the current commercial building where he housed his Farm Equipment business. The Simpson Family occupied the second floor as their home while a thriving International Harvester Dealership was built, serving the needs of the farmers.

Lyle’s son David Simpson later took over and in 1966 formed Simpson Farm Supply and changed to distributing Ford Farm Equipment. The Ski-Doo snowmobile line was added and the business thrived for the next few years. Due to the demographics of the community and changes in the distribution policies for manufacturers, in 1973 David closed the business and from then to 2002 the building was home to 8 different businesses.

First came a gift and record shop, then the following year a ladies’ wear store, Tiger’s Eye fashions. Then the space was shared by Bijouterie Manon. Next a conversion to a Chiropractic Clinic for Annick Gregoire. Later a change to a bulk food store, then Video Store and Sears catalogue counter.

In 2002 the building was sold to Nancy and Michael Cryzewski who renovated and opened Le Café. This successful business is now owned by Yves and Lise St. Hilaire and is enjoyed by all the customers. With the many changes seen at this address over the years, it was obviously a choice commercial location on our main street, surviving many changes. So next time you are enjoying a meal or coffee at Le Café think of all the history within these walls.