Joanisse, Jules | Biographical Dictionary of Architects in Canada

JOANISSE, Jules (1870-1932) is an obscure figure active as an architect and contractor in Timmins, Ont. He was born in Angus, Quebec on 4 August 1870, but no information has been found on his education or training. In 1916 he prepared a design for the New Empire Theatre, Third Avenue at Balsam Street, TIMMINS, ONT. (Porcupine Advance [Timmins], 14 June 1916, 1, descrip.), and in 1925 drew plans for the Empire Hotel, Spruce Street at Fourth Avenue, TIMMINS, ONT., an austere and reserved work which became a centre for much of the social and commercial activity in this gold mining town (C.R., xl, 14 April 1926, 352-5, illus. & descrip.). He served as architect to the Sisters of Providence for a major addition to St Mary's Roman Catholic Hospital, Cedar Street, TIMMINS, ONT., in 1927 (C.R., xli, 25 May 1927, 175). His last major work appears to be a commission for the Empire Hotel, Fraser Street at McIntyre Street West, NORTH BAY, ONT., in 1928 (C.R., xlii, 15 Feb. 1928, 50). Joanisse died in Timmins, Ont. on 23 July 1932 (obituary The Porcupine Advance [Timmins], 28 July 1932, 1; inf. Melissa Morin, Timmins Public Library).