North Toronto Historical Society Monthly Meetings
 
     January - February 2026




Meetings are held from 7 - 8 p.m. in Rm. 200 at Northern District Library, 40 Orchard View Blvd. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. No refreshments are served - you may wish to bring your own. Co-sponsored by The Toronto Public Library.

 


Wednesday, January 28   7 p. m.  

Cabbagetown: The History of a Toronto Neighbourhood

As a Heritage Conservation District in Toronto, Cabbagetown is a Victorian village within the city where tiny workers' cottages share streets with grand homes and coach houses. This illustrated talk will trace the area's history from its Indigenous roots, to Simcoe's construction of a home at Castle Frank, to the opening of the Riverdale farm. Its various architectural styles and some historic businesses, from bars to medical colleges, will be discussed.

Presented by Virginia Van Vliet, retired librarian and Cabbagetown Preservation Association board member.


Wednesday, February 25   7 p. m.  

The Letters: Postmark Prejudice in Black and White


A controversial, trailblazing, interracial marriage between two Nova Scotians in
 Toronto in 1947 and a campaign of letters written to stop one determined white
 woman from wedding an exceptional Black man form the basis of a fascinating
 biographical novel in which North Toronto is a key locale. Author Sheila White
 will present a slide show about her book, “The Letters”, and The Whites, her
 historically-significant family, whose members include famed concert singer Portia
 White, labour activist Jack White, Order of Canada recipient Bill White and their
 renowned minister father Rev. Capt. Dr. Wm. Andrew White (1874-1936).

Note: A brief annual general meeting will precede the presentation.







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