The St. Clair West neighbourhood we know today was born as a streetcar suburb. The St. Clair line, which opened in 1914, was part of the City of Toronto’s efforts to move people north – a classic ‘if you build it, they will come’. And come they did. Farmers’ fields and orchards were replaced by homes and schools, shops and businesses—all because of the streetcar.
In these interviews you’ll hear how the community evolved through the voices of people who lived there between the 1920s and 1980s. It’s a window into everyday life in a very dynamic, and always changing, neighbourhood.
Thank you to everyone who agreed to be interviewed. Their memories and stories enrich us all, especially those from people who are no longer with us.
Perhaps you are looking for stories on a specific topic – anything from childhood pastimes to living through the massive blizzard of 1944.
Our collection of Stories is the place to go!
“It was a real neighbourhood...[my kids] knew every child within a two mile radius.”
— Kathleen Dunphy
About
In 2013 the Wychwood Barns Community Association organized a hugely successful celebration of the 100th anniversary of the opening of both the St. Clair streetcar line and the Wychwood Barns. The celebrations brought so many people together; those who have lived in the neighbourhood for decades; those who moved here as immigrants; those who raised families here or ran a business. We met former TTC employees who remembered working in the Barns when they were home to the beloved 512. It was amazing!
Get Involved
We know there are more stories to tell and with your help we can do that! Maybe you, or someone you know, have stories to share about life in the St. Clair West neighbourhood. Do you have a passion for local history? Are you interested in getting involved in your community?
Please get in touch with us at
