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Summary

These Century-Old Photos Are Some Of The First Taken In Toronto & They Look Unrecognizable

The photos were taken when Toronto was trying to become the capital of Canada.
Old Toronto Photos Show Just How Different The City Looks Now
City Of Toronto Archives
Ontario Editor

While many of us know Toronto as a million-person city, it wasn't always that way. 

The City of Toronto has shared some of the first pictures to be taken of the 6ix, and they look almost unrecognizable. 

Editor's Choice: 8 Lesser-Known Hiking Trails In Ontario That You Can Enjoy Without The Crowds

According to the City, in the late 1850s, multiple spots including Toronto, Montreal, Kingston, Quebec City and Ottawa were fighting to be named the capital of Canada. 

City Of Toronto Archives


During this time, the city took some photos of the area to include in a report of why Toronto should win the title. 

City Of Toronto Archives

The photos, which are the earliest known pictures of the 6ix, showcase old buildings surrounded by quiet roads. 

City Of Toronto Archives

One photo even captures Trinity College, which looks strangely different without the buildings that surround it today. 

City Of Toronto Archives

Other snapshots show the beginnings of King Street East, which still remains a popular spot to Torontonians decades later. 

City of Toronto Art Collection

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    • Allysha Howse
      Allysha Howse was the Ontario Editor for Narcity Canada. Based in Toronto with seven years of experience as a leading journalist, she has been able to bring breaking news to readers across the country. Over the past year, she has been able to help Narcity reach record-breaking growth and bring original Ontario-focused stories to the fingertips of millennials. Allysha specialized in Books and Media Studies at the University of Toronto and has publications in Snapd Media.

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