16 Queen Street, The Cornerstone, was built by the Fishermen’s Society as a hall and exhibition centre for fisheries and agriculture produce, but it became a important venue for theatre, special performances and bazaars. It is the oldest surviving theatre in the city and the foundation meeting of the Star of the Sea Society was held in this building.
In 1872, ownership of the hall was transferred to the Roman Catholic Diocese of St. John’s and the building was dedicated as St. Peter’s Church. The upper floor was used as a church for Catholics awaiting the completion of St. Patrick’s Church and the ground floor held a school operated by the Sisters of Mercy.