Welcome to The Gresham. Can we get you a drink?

Now, down to brass tacks: You are residing in a frozen part of Queensland’s history; a building whose architecture defines an era. Initially designed for the Queensland National Bank in 1881, Mr. Francis Drummond Greville (FDG) completed the three-story brick structure four years later. As one of the most important designs of FDG’s career, no expense was spared in its construction.

Cast your eyes to the gent above the fire place in the front bar. Edward Robert Drury (1832-1896), banker and soldier, was the commander of the Queensland Defence Forces and head of the Queensland National Bank that commissioned and oversaw construction of the building you're currently in. A true renegade and complete autocrat, he made massive loans and risky acquisitions without consulting his directors or recognising any limits, sometimes even concealing accounts from the board. 1881 saw construction of the jewel in the banks crown; so magnificent were its stained glass and polished cedar that it became known as Drury's temple.

Why “Gresham”? What’s “Gresham”? Who’s “Gresham”?

A fellow by the name of Buckeridge flaunted his architectural skills back in 1890 by his awe-inspiring creation: The Gresham Hotel. It sat behind you now, on the corner of Adelaide and Creek.

A building so rich with history met its end in a similarly striking fashion. The great 1974 flood damaged the Gresham Hotel so dramatically, it was demolished. We don’t want to demolish any memories of the Gresham Hotel. We want you to soak up the history that surrounds you – and maybe a few whiskies as well.