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Canadian Urbanism Uncovered

Heritage Toronto walking tours this weekend: St. Clair West and the Wellington Place Neighbourhood

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St. Clair West: Streetcars, Artists’ Colonies and More — SATURDAY, MAY 9 @ 1:30 PM

In the late 1800s, artist Marmaduke Matthews started an artists’ colony on a wooded hill overlooking Bathurst St. and Davenport Rd. In the fall of 2008, history repeated itself when Artscape launched a new haven for artists nearby, in long-vacant streetcar barns. Explore these two enclaves, as well as some of the other treasures in this St. Clair West neighbourhood.

LEADER: Councillor Joe Mihevc and Wychwood Heights BIA
START POINT: Wells Hill Park, 1 block east of Bathurst & St Clair Ave W, near south entrance to St Clair West Subway Station
FINISH POINT: Artscape Wychwood Barns, 601 Christie St, 2 blocks south of St Clair Ave W
LENGTH: Approx. 2 to 2 1/2 hours
FOCUS: Historical, architectural
DIFFICULTY: Pavement and park grounds, hills, slopes and some rough ground

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Wellington Place Neighbourhood — SUNDAY, MAY 10 @ 1:30 PM

The diversity of Toronto’s roles since its founding in 1793 are reflected in this vibrant downtown neighbourhood – evidence of our military past, Victorian residences, and buildings from the era as a manufacturing centre. See how the Wellington Place neighbourhood has successfully adapted to 200 years of changes.

LEADER: Marta O’Brien
START POINT: NE corner of Victoria Memorial Square, Wellington St W at Portland St, just east of Bathurst
FINISH POINT: Bathurst and Adelaide Streets
LENGTH: Approx. 2 hours
FOCUS: Architectural, historical
DIFFICULTY: Average walk on sidewalks

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Spacing is pleased to be the promoting sponsor of the Heritage Toronto walking tours. All walks are free, and no reservations are required.

Photo courtesy of City of Toronto Archives, Series 71, Item 3253

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