1793
Land purchased from the Algonkian speaking peoples known as the Mississaugas.
1805
Acquisition finalized in Treaty 13
Early 1800s
The Essery includes the Garrison Hospital and Officer’s Residence, providing support to the Fort York Garrison.
1850s
New railway lines brought adjacent multi-storey brick factory buildings to the site, reflecting the new and future industrial character of the neighbourhood.
1886
98 – 91 Niagara is constructed, designed by the Architect William Wallace Blair, later sold to A.A Barthelmes (Barthelmes &Company) who installed a piano action factory.
1886
93 – 97 Niagara was constructed as a 1-storey wood building tenanted by City Planing Mill, manufacturers of doors, window sash and blinds and carriage parts.
1887
101 – 107 and 109 Niagara are constructed, the former home to 9 tenants including Gilchrist Sash Manufacturers, Loose Piano Key Manufacturers, and the American Rattan Co.
1894
The Beard Building is the city’s tallest skyscraper at just seven stories high.
1910
Businesses move out of the city centre and away from the lake.
1960
Revitalization led to King St. becoming an entertainment destination.
2005
The Essery’s rare collection of buildings listed in the Inventory of Heritage Properties
Today
Steeped in history, melded with new architecture, rises a bright new Aspen Ridge community.