This photo from the Ruddy sign company archive shows Caulfield’s Dairy on Howard Park Ave. just east of Roncesvalles. Back Lane Studios is located in what was formerly a branch of Caulfield’s. (Fonds 1488, Series 1230, Item 3197).
Exploring history online
Maybe you’ve thought about researching your home’s history. Or perhaps you’re interested in finding out more about your neighbourhood. Did you ever wonder about a building’s history? Or who used to live in your house? Maybe you would like to find out when something was built or what was on a site now occupied by a condo.
Jessica Algie, from the City of Toronto Archives, showed us how to dig into the city’s past by accessing city directories, insurance maps, photo archives, old newspaper files and other online databases.
Watch her presentation on YouTube by clicking here.
We offered the workshops to help our Mapping our Memory participants — our “Mappers” in their story collecting and research. Some 200 interested participants joined the two Zoom sessions.
Her workshops were a great success. Here are some of the responses to the talk: “That was wonderful!” “This was fascinating and so informative.” “Invaluable session.” “Can’t wait to get started on my searches.” “Truly fascinating and useful information.”
Jessica has shared useful links to various databases here.
Jessica’s Tip Sheet
These links will help you uncover a building’s history, your home’s former occupants and fascinating vintage photos of Toronto!
City of Toronto Archives
• Online maps & fire insurance maps
• Researching your home (or any building) step-by-step guide
Toronto Public Library
• TPL local history and genealogy resources an overview
• Digital Toronto City Directories open access, no library card needed
• Toronto Public Library Digital Archive search archival photographs in the Toronto Public Library collection including the Toronto Star photographic archive.
• Toronto Star Historical Newspaper Archive requires Toronto Public Library card to access
• The Globe and Mail Historical Newspaper Archive requires Toronto Public Library card to access
Other go-to sites for online historical research:
• City of Toronto Heritage Register
• City of Toronto interactive map
• Ontario Genealogical Society
• City of Toronto History Museums online shop my favorite place to purchase books on Toronto history
Toronto Archives on social media
YouTube Toronto Archives RESEARCH TUTORIALS. Watch Researching Your House +2.
Instagram @toronto_archives latest news and updates, photo highlights, behind the scenes
Twitter @TorontoArchives archival photos and conversations about historic Toronto
Flickr Toronto History browse Toronto Archives photos grouped by location or theme
Have a question or want to join the City of Toronto Archives mailing list? Get in touch. We would love to hear from you.
As part of the City’s COVID-19 response the City of Toronto Archives is closed. Reference service is being offered by email, with digital records and online resources available. Stay up-to-date on all affected City services and when they may resume by visiting toronto.ca/covid19
The Toronto Archives are closed because of CoVid-19, but there are lots of online resources. Photo: 2002-JR48 collection.