About — St. Clair West Oral History Project

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!

We were struck by the excitement this event generated in our neighbourhood and by how many were inspired to share their stories about its extraordinary history. And thus was born the St. Clair Oral History Project. A committee of the Wychwood Barns Community Association, a group of enthusiastic and committed volunteers have worked hard to bring these stories to you. Let us know how you enjoy them!

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.

We’re always looking for new stories, and for help in presenting them. If you’re interested in volunteering in any way you can reach us at info@stclairwest-oralhistory.com

Night view looking west on St. Clair Avenue to Christie Street, showing safety platform - April, 1933 (City of Toronto Archives, Fonds 16, Series 71, Item 9688)

St Clair Ave and Oakwood Ave Safety zone - 1928

Vaughan Theatre, on St. Clair Ave - 1947

St Clair Avenue, east from Christie - 1928

St. Clair Avenue West at Northcliffe Blvd - 1982

St. Clair Ave W Streetcar at Bathurst Street - 1928

Special Thanks To:

Betsy Anderson, Jill-Marie Burke, Annemarie Cabri, Marny Gibson, Michelle Gold, Raylea Lambert, Allie Lockhart, Celia Lottridge, Sian Madsen, Diane Mohan, Christine Moreland, Rita Nelson, Melissa Paterson, Audrey Pyée, Laura Robb, Alexa Roland, Mary Rose Sutton, Heather Walker, Yaxian Wang, Gianina Ramos and the City of Toronto Archives.