Parkdale, Toronto
Parkdale is a working class and largely residential neighbourhood in the city of Toronto. Located in the south end of the city, west of downtown, the Parkdale neighbourhood is bounded by the Gardner Expressway and Lake Ontario on the south, by Roncesvalles Avenue on the west, Dufferin Street on the east and by CP Rail lines and Bloor Street on the north. Parkdale began as an independent settlement in the 1850s and became an incorporated village in 1879. It was annexed into the growing city of Toronto in 1889.
In the first half of the 20th century Parkdale was a predominantly upper-class residential area. Its nature changed dramatically however when the Gardiner Expressway was constructed in 1955. The construction of the Gardiner Expressway resulted in the demolition of the southern portion of Parkdale along with the Sunnyside Amusement Park and the creation of a barrier between the neighbourhood and the lake shore. This was then followed by a boom in apartment construction which replaced whole blocks of homes. While some older residential buildings remained, many of these were converted into rooming houses. The proportion of lower-income and newcomer residents increased dramatically. Parkdale has, as a result, become a working-class neighbourhood and an entry point for new immigrants from around the world. This has included waves of immigrants from the Caribbean, Vietnam, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, China and Hungary. Most recently there has been a notable influx of immigrants from South Asia and Tibet.
Bustling Queen St. West in 1910
Colourful Queen St. West Today
Despite recent social problems, Parkdale has become known as a diverse neighbourhood with a distinct bohemian and artistic flair. In addition to the many ethnicities found in Parkdale it is the home of many artists and young professionals. Local businesses have undertaken many initiatives to reinvigorate the neighbourhood and numerous small parks, gardens and historic plaques have been put in place to enhance the neighbourhood’s vibrancy and to celebrate its village heritage. Parkdale residents feel a strong commitment to their community and have taken a very active role in the community’s revitalization.
"Saturday afternoon at the Rhino”. Parkdale’s bohemian atmosphere attracts many visitors.
“Straight out of Parkdale”. Parkdale’s youthful and artistic side is also a draw for many visitors.