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This Tiny Village Built a Town Hall—Then Toronto Swallowed It Whole

March 30, 2025

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Insider Toronto
March 30, 2025

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PHOTOS OF THE WEEK
Most Torontonians Have No Idea What Was Lost in Yorkville

Yorkville Town Hall, c. 1907

Before Yorkville was all designer boutiques and luxury condos, it was a quiet village —and at its centre stood Yorkville Town Hall, built in 1859. 

This elegant red-brick structure, topped with a striking clock tower, wasn’t just a government building—it was the soul of Yorkville, where locals gathered to debate, vote, and shape the future of their small but proud village.

After Yorkville was annexed into Toronto in 1883, the hall continued to serve the public as a library and community space, keeping its civic spirit alive.

The hall survived until 1941, when it was destroyed by fire and was demolished.

The town hall's coat of arms plaque survives today on the front face of the Toronto Fire Services Station 312.

Postcard of Yonge Street north of Bloor Street, with view of Yorkville Town Hall. 1907.

Yorkville Town Hall in 1870s, with a horse-drawn street car in front on Yonge Street.

TFS Station 312, with the town hall's coat of arms plaque above the front entrance.

MUST HAVES TORONTO
Toronto: Then And Now

If you’re fascinated by Toronto’s history, Toronto: Then and Now by Doug Taylor is a must-read. I love this book and keep it on my desk at work. Even though I bought it in 2018, I still flip through the pages! This book pairs stunning vintage photos with their modern counterparts, showcasing how the city has evolved over time.

My personal copy that I keep in my office. I love flipping through this book!

RARE TORONTO FACTS
Did You Know…

When Old City Hall opened in 1899 it was the largest municipal building in North America.

VIDEO OF THE WEEK
Tallest Building In The British Empire…

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