It is a challenging task even to walk or ride on the narrow road named "Broad" way in the Old Madras. Forget about observing the heritage structures or historical landmarks! "Beehive Buildings," located near the "Broadway Talkies," is one such typical British-period structure that anyone hardly notices. It is indeed hard to believe if I state that Madras's once biggest department Store was operating from here. It was perhaps the first department store in the city too.

Oakes and Co. started general goods stores in 1843 in Popham's Broadway. In 1845, they moved the stores to this building, which was more spacious. The store developed into the biggest departmental store in South India, claiming to have the largest stock of general goods. It was called Oakes & Co in 1857, and the showroom was called "Exchange Hall". Later, when the business grew further, it moved to Mount Road. The "Beehive Foundry" was founded in this building in 1893 CE. 

The foundry had specialization in making ships' castings. The company had about 500 workers and got contracts from railways and shipping companies. In September 1914, during the World War I, the company was entrusted with the necessary iron, steel and brass work in connection with the fitting up of a Hospital Ship (named H.S. Madras). 

The not-so-attractive yesteryear's run-down building has such fascinating history. Not only this, but every structure in the Old Madras has an exciting story. I am prepared to tell you everything if you are ready to listen. ;-)

Happy travelling.

Bibliography - "Southern India - Its History, People, Commerce and Industrial resources" by Somerset Playne, published in 1914