What Happened to The Esplanade?

February 2, 2025

Author

Insider Toronto
February 02, 2025

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PHOTOS OF THE WEEK
What Happened to The Esplanade?

9 photos that will change your perspective of The Esplanade.
The Esplanade was originally designed in the 1800s as a grand boulevard along the city’s waterfront, meant to rival Europe’s great promenades.

However, it quickly became an industrial hub, home to railways, freight yards, and warehouses. By the early 1900s, it was lined with markets and shipping docks, playing a key role in the city's economy.

As land was filled in and industry shifted, the area declined. By the 1950s, much of its industrial past faded, paving the way for modern redevelopment.

Custom Warehouse, Yonge St., north west corner Esplanade West. 1880s.

Great Western Railway Station, Yonge Street & Esplanade East. 1867.

Bay Street looking north from Esplanade West. 1900.

Toronto Hydro Scott St Sub-station. Esplanade E (foot of Scott St.). 1910s.

NE towards the Board of Trade Building & Bank of Montreal (Hockey Hall of Fame today). 1926.

NE from Yonge St & The Esplanade in 1931. Canadian Bank of Commerce building rises above the city.

Custom Warehouse NW corner of Yonge St and The Esplanade in 1884. (Now demolished)

Yonge Street Wharf looking North from the foot of The Esplanade. 1920s.

Yonge Street Wharf at Esplanade East in 1927.

ANNOUNCING A NEW SECTION: MUST READS
The 500 Hidden Secrets of Toronto

How to find Toronto’s hidden secrets!

Whether you are a Torontonian or a tourist, this book shows you how much history and interesting things exist in our city.

I can guarantee you will want to explore Toronto after reading this book.

RARE TORONTO FACTS
Did You Know About….?

Toronto’s Great Stork Derby (1926-1936) was a bizarre contest sparked by millionaire Charles Vance Millar’s will, which promised his fortune to the woman with the most children in ten years. The legal battle and public spectacle resulted in four mothers splitting the prize, each having nine children during the period.

VIDEO OF THE WEEK
What Happened to the Biggest Mansion in Canada? (Chorley Park)

Here is the link:
Click here to watch