These buildings provided offices for immigration agents and temporary accommodation to immigrants with no other options. Disease flourished in these crowded halls. Other newcomers stayed at nearby hotels and boarding houses, or were met by family members and taken to their homes.

By contrast, the railway’s Royal Alexandra Hotel (Higgins and Main) provided wealthy travelers with splendid accommodation. Federal government authorities stayed here during the strike and held meetings here with Citizens’ and Strike Committee leaders.

<--column break-->
<--caption-->