Robson Street, or Robsonstrasse as it was once known, is one of the oldest commercial streets in the city.
For decades it's been lined with local shops, independent cafes, and stores with offerings from around the world. In the 1970s it was a popular shopping destination for anyone in the city, just like nowadays.
While its function hasn't changed much over the years, its look has somewhat transformed as Vancouver's towers were built up around it. While many lower buildings still exist in the area (there are actually two blocks, from Burrard to Bute, that have no towers), it's not the open space that one might recall had they walked down the street in the mid-70s.
Two things you might notice in these pics are: how many independent businesses there were along Robson, and how few of them remain. While it's a thriving commercial area, there isn't much from 50 years ago that still exists today.
If you want to check out the archives yourself from home, you can search their digital holdings online.
