Oriental Bank, Corner of Queen Street and Flinders Lane, C.1858
The Greek themed Oriental Bank was built in 1856 at a time when the number and character of Melbourne's banks transformed. Along with the discovery of gold, the booming economy needed credit, specialist payment services and a place for savings.
Bankers and financiers quickly came to occupy places of prominence. Unfortunately this bank went out of business in the mid 1880's, probably a prequel to the 1891 economy crash where other banks and businesses failed in large numbers. The building was demolished shortly afterwards. It was located on the south west corner of Queen Street and Flinders Lane.
The paved footpaths, and the open bluestone drainage that was synonymous with Melbourne in the 19th and early part of the 20th century have yet to be constructed.