New exhibit at the Museum of Toronto
For someone who loves learning about Toronto history and everyday stories about the city, it has taken me way too long to check out the Museum of Toronto. Founded in 2014 (and originally named the Myseum of Toronto), the organization moved into its temporary public space on the ground floor of the 401 Richmond arts & cultural hub in 2021.
Its newest exhibition celebrates the lives of 52 women who have shaped Toronto – taking inspiration from the 2021 Canadian census stat that 52% of Torontonians are women.
The stories of 52 women from the 1800s to today are illustrated through archival photographs, historic artifacts.The multi-year collaborative research project features scientists, artists, community organizers, entrepreneurs, athletes, doctors, politicians, writers. Some are well-known names like writer Margaret Atwood and civic leader like Hazel McCallion, who held the position of Mississauga mayor for 36 years. Others and their stories are perhaps less known, but have Toronto facilities named after them: pioneering hockey legend Angela James (a North York rink bears her name) and Lillian H. Smith (Toronto Public Library branch bears her name), was the first children’s librarian in the British Empire.
The space is dense with facts and artifacts, accompanied by monologues written by Canadian playwrights and performed by Canadian actors. Every piece tells a story and will certainly connect with people of all ages and interests.
For the littles in TOw, there is not a lot to touch, but you can feed their curiosity with some interesting stories and artifacts; eg. A recreation of a dressing room with costumes of actresses and dancers, an ‘old’ mobile phone used by street nurse Cathy Crowe, trophies and jerseys of celebrated athletes, and oh that – that’s a typewriter.
For teens in TOw, there is a lot to discover and discuss, including a series of fascinating facts and a chance to engage with a vote at the start and an opportunity to add a question or nominate another woman at the end of the exhibit.
For teachers and students in TOw, there are educational materials available on the Museum of Toronto’s website. Here is the full list of 52.
Don’t miss: A live performance will be part of Luminato Festival, premiering in June 2025.
Trip tips:
Low-down: Admission is free, donations are encouraged. Hours are Wednesday to Saturday from 12 – 6 p.m.
Getting there: Located not he first floor of the 401 Richmond building at 401 Richmond Street West. Nearest TTC stop is, lots of paid parking in the area.
In the hood: The Museum of Toronto is part of the larger 401 Richmond and it’s worth taking a stroll through its galleries. Be sure to stop and browse at the Spacing store. It is chock full of Toronto-themed products, from posters and books to clothing and buttons – a must-go to feed your T.O. soul buy Toronto-inspired gifts.
Eat & drink: Dark Horse Coffee is east of the Museum of Toronto. Lots of restaurants along Spadina.
Hidden gem: Plan your visit during when the indoor courtyard is accessible to the public. A gorgeous quite little enclave in the heart of the city. At the time of writing this, the public space is open to the public Monday – Friday 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and 5:30 – 7:00 p.m. and 9 a.m. – 6 p.m on Saturdays.
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