Due to its proximity to downtown Toronto, North York has become of the fastest growing places in Canada. It is a district of Toronto, Ontario, Canada, and is located between Etobicoke and Scarborough, north of Old Toronto. With lots of business establishments around, North York has been a secondary economic center nearest to downtown Toronto.
Early History
There were no clear evidences and records of early settlers in North York. But based on a few artifacts found near the area, the place was assumed to have been an agricultural site, where native tribes planted corn and other crops. The first recorded settlers were in 1795, after the land was surveyed and since then more and more immigrants came from Europe. In 1796, Yonge Street opened, and it became known as the longest street in the world today. St. John’s Anglican Church, the first church in North York was opened in 1816. The area remained an agricultural land until the 20th century.
Development from Township to a City
On June 13, 1922, the Township of York’s rural area became known as the Township of North York. By that time, North York was commonly known as a regional agricultural hub made up of small, scattered villages. In 1923, a huge fire destroyed most of the Township records. Later that year, the officials appointed their first Fire Chief. Despite the Great Depression, the town continued to make small progress, especially after World War II and became Borough of North York in 1967. More schools and classrooms were also opened and developed. Twelve years after, the borough was declared the City of North York. It was on February 14, 1979, Valentine’s Day, when the declaration took place, prompting its officials to use “The City with a Heart” as the corporate slogan of their new city.
Being Part of Toronto
In 1950’s, Toronto has been making significant progress, leading to its transformation as a metropolitan center. And since North York is directly adjacent to Toronto, it greatly affected the town, especially after it was included as part of Metropolitan Toronto in 1954. Its economic status improved significantly and more immigrants came. It was also this year when Baycrest opened and the first amalgamated Board of Education was created. Positions for Director of Recreation and Director of Parks was also set.
In 1998, North York amalgamated into the megacity of Toronto, along with other nearby municipalities like Old Toronto, Etobicoke, Scarborough, York, and East York.
North York Today
North York is just as successful and progressive as its nearby districts. As of 2016, its population shoot up to 672,955, making it one of the fastest growing areas in Canada. A huge portion of its population are immigrants from China, Philippines, Korea, and other Asian countries. There are also Black Canadians, Latin Americans, and Arabs residing in the area.
There are also a lot of popular spots that are found in North York, including Downsview Park, Aga Khan Museum, and North York Ski Center. It also has several neighborhoods well-liked by both locals and immigrants such as Bayview Village, Don Mills, Don Valley Village, Bayview Woods – Steeles, Bridle Path, and a lot more.
Up next, find out some interesting date ideas in North York.
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