Bank of the People Montreal in 1840. Until 1835, every bank in Upper Canada required a legislated charter which established it as a legal person able to sue, and be sued at law. Only two Banks had been chartered: the Bank of Upper Canada and the Commercial Bank of the Midland District. Both banks were controlled by the "Family Compact" who used their control of the currency supply and credit to control trade and ultimately, the farmers. They had a "licensed monopoly" to print paper money, which reduced competition. In 1835, Dr Charles Duncombe, a Reform politician in the Legislative Assembly, was part of
Bremer Bank (German bank) The painting of founder Heinrich Maier was removed and is owned by the Commerzbank. In its place (see photo) is now a door leading to the lower level of the Manufactum. The name Bremer Bank is now used for the landmarked building at the Domshof. The Commerzbank AG was represented there with a branch until mid-2015. Due to reasons of landmark tradition the copper lettering 'Bremer Bank' remained on the gable of the building. Above the entrance used to be green luminous advertising reading 'Bremer Bank' which was replaced according to landmark requirements by a copper sign now reading 'Commerzbank'