Type: Museum
The village of Todmorden provided lumber, flour, beer and paper for the growing city of Toronto throughout the 19th century. The Todmorden Mills Heritage Site offers a wide range of public programming such as guided tours of the historic houses, educational programs for school groups, summer camps, special exhibits as well as special events.
Programming:
Conservation / Preservation:
Architecture
Four original, in situ buildings remain on the grounds. These consist of two historic homes, the former paper mill and the remains of the brewery complex. The Cottage has been restored to the 1940s reflecting life on the home front in East York while Helliwell House has been restored to reflect workers’ lives in the late 1890s. The paper mill has been restored to a fully-accessible theatre and gallery now known as the Papermill Theatre and Gallery.
Artefacts
The Museum’s collection consists primarily of artifacts related to the time periods to which the two historic houses have been restored.
Archives
Archival materials related to Todmorden Mills and East York are housed at the Toronto Reference Library, City of Toronto Archives, and Archives of Ontario.
Environment / Nature
The site contains a 9.2 hectare wildflower preserve that is being re-naturalized to pre-European contact.
Public Programming:
Exhibitions
The artifacts on display in the historic houses reflect the time periods to which the homes have been restored.
Education / Tours
Guided tours of the two historic houses and grounds are available year-round. Educational, curriculum-linked programs are available to school groups. Seasonal guided walks of the wildflower preserve are also provided.
Art Gallery
The Papermill Gallery regularly exhibits the works of local artists, community art groups and emerging artists.
Theatre
The Papermill Theatre offers performance space for theatre, community celebrations and corporate events.
Volunteer/Internship/Placement Opportunities:
This museum is staffed by the City of Toronto.
Address & Contact Information:
67 Pottery Road
Toronto, ON
M4K 2B9
Phone: 416-396-2819
Email: todmorden@toronto.ca
Website: http://www.toronto.ca/culture/museums/todmorden.htm
Hours of Operation:
Hours vary according to season. Check the website for details.
Key Words: pioneer, industry