Incorporated as a non-profit corporation in 1913, the Labor Lyceum was a cultural locus in Toronto, providing space and support for the mobilization of worker’s unions and community groups. Home to lectures, dances, fundraisers, concerts and performances, the Lyceum saw many influential individuals walk through its doors. To learn more about the Labor Lyceum, click here.
Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada plaque
On May 25 2008 the Honourable Jason Kenney, Secretary of State for Multiculturalism and Canadian Identity installed a Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada plaque in Kensington Market. Later in 2006, the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada designated Kensington Market as a site of national historic significance transforming the neighbourhood into a national landmark. Read more here.
The Standard Theatre
Opened in 1922, the Standard was the first Yiddish Theatre in Toronto and was one of the centres of the Toronto Jewish Community.
Read more about the Standard Theatre Here.
Augusta Fruit Market
Started by Sonya Lunansky in the early 1930s, Augusta Fruit Market is the kind of shop the market has come to be defined by. Originally opened as a few boxes of fruit sold curb-side, Augusta Fruit Market eventually found a full-time home at 65 Nassau St. Sonya lived in the market for her whole life and was an active, vibrant member of the community. Sonya’s Park, a block north, was named in her honour.
Sanci’s Tropical Fruits
Kiever Synagogue
Built in 1927 and serving as the epicenter of Kensington’s Jewish community, Kiever Synagogue was the first synagogue in the Kensington Market area with a congregation dating back to 1912.
Before the Kiever Synagogue was built, this plot was the location of Bellevue, the Denison family home, built by George Taylor Denison I in 1815 and demolished in 1889.
91 Bellevue Avenue
The Nathanael Institute
Early in the 1900s the Nathanael Institute moved into 91 Bellevue Ave and remained there until 1962. An Anglican mission, the institute attempted to convert Jewish residents of the market to Christianity. Despite their mission statement, the institute became more of a community centre for the market’s youth, providing classes and services to market residents.
St Stephen’s Community House
St Stephen’s Community House moved into 91 Bellevue Ave in 1962 as a Christian-based settlement house providing services primarily to youths. In 1974, St Stephen’s became an independant, incorporated not-for-profit charitable organization, which now provides services to more than 30,000 people a year in Kensington Market and surrounding neighborhoods.
For more information visit the St Stephen’s Community House Website.