At first, Robie was mainly a residential and commercial street, but in 1882, the Nova Scotia Cotton Manufacturing Company was constructed at the intersection with Almon Street, which was followed by a series of other factories and created an industrial distinct at the north end of Robie.
At first, Robie was primarily a residential and commercial street, but in 1882, the Nova Scotia Cotton Manufacturing Company was constructed at the intersection with Almon Street, sparking a chain reaction that resulted in numerous other factories being built along the north end of Robie, creating an industrial area.