On a cold night in March 1985, the residents of Cochrane St. and Gower St. were summoned from their beds by the latest major fire to threaten the downtown, an inferno that destroyed the Cochrane Hotel and threatened the adjoining dwellings. As the smoke cleared the next morning, this landmark at the corner of Cochrane and Gower Streets that had housed many a distinguished visitor for nearly a century was reduced to a pile of charred ruins. Since that time, there have been successive schemes to rehabilitate the busy corner. But not until 24 May 1990, with the opening of the magnificent 15-unit Senior Citizens' Complex was the corner restored to an attractive new use.

The new building, designed by the firm of Pratt, Henley, and Blackwood for the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation, incorporates many external features of late Victorian rowhousing represented in the adjoining area. By taking into account the advanced age of the occupants, it incorporates other features of contemporary design while at the same time allowing space for underground parking. Its most spectacular achievement, however, is its easy alignment with the existing street. To the east, it presents the illusion of a single dwelling. To the south, it mimics the adjacent roofing and window styles and gives the illusion of four houses without disclosing its actual purpose.

The Thorndyke was built in 1917 by Capt. John Thornhill, a master mariner and owner of several famous Grand Bank Schooners. The prosperity of the schooner captains was reflected in their houses. Capt. Thornhill chose a Queen Anne style, no doubt copied from his frequent visits to New England. Located in the oldest settled area of Grand Bank, it stands before an impressive and unobstructed view of Fortune Bay.

Soon after the house was built, the Thornhills began to operate it as a small hotel, the only one in Grand Bank for many years, calling it The Thorndyke, after one of their schooners. Following their ownership, it changed hands many times, and by 1984 had deteriorated and several original features were destroyed or obscured by renovation.

When Gar and Elva Fizzard purchased this fine old building they decided to begin a process of serious restoration to correct errors of the past. They undertook most of the work themselves, employing local workmen when necessary, and using local materials whenever possible.

The major problems encountered by the Fizzards included: a deteriorate roof; the removal of the widow's walk (now completely rebuilt); a totally inappropriate addition to the north Wall (now totally removed); the replacement of the staircase spindles by plywood; and the covering of every wall with beaverboard. In addition, the wiring has to be renewed and the bathrooms had to be modernized.

In 1986, two years and many stories later, The Thorndyke once again reopened its doors as a Bed and Breakfast, featuring bright and airy bedrooms, charming dining facilities, cozy living room chats, fabulous food, and outstanding hospitality.

In 1989, the N.L.H.F. designated their building as a Registered Heritage Structure.