Leaside

Lea’s legacy whispers through Leaside. It started with John Lea, a pioneer farmer from Philadelphia. He arrived in Canada in 1819. Leaside was just farmland then. In the 1850s, his son William built an octagonal house. They called it “Leaside”. The name stuck. Leaside officially became a town in 1913, thanks to the Canadian Northern Railway. It was the first planned town in Ontario. World War I interrupted its growth. But Leaside played a crucial role. The Leaside Munitions Company produced heavy artillery. Canadian pilots trained at the Leaside Airfield. This airfield marked a milestone in 1918. It was the destination of Canada’s first airmail flight from Montreal. Leaside remained a town until 1967. Then it joined the Borough of East York, which later became part of Toronto. Leaside today is a sought-after neighborhood. Families are drawn to its green spaces, parks, and excellent schools. Bayview Avenue is a shopping hub. It has everything from children’s stores to antique shops and pubs. Leaside also boasts impressive recreational facilities. The Leaside Memorial Community Gardens is a prime example. It houses an ice arena, a pool, a curling rink, and an auditorium. Nature lovers can explore Serena Gundy Park and Sunnybrook Park. Sunnybrook Park offers sports fields, an exercise trail, and even horseback riding. For tennis enthusiasts, there’s the Leaside Tennis Club in Trace Manes Park. This park also has a playground, a baseball diamond, and a winter ice rink. Leaside’s houses are typically situated on large lots, with private drives and garages. Many retain their original wood trim, hardwood floors, and fireplaces. The Tudor-style homes, built in the 1930s and 1940s, give Leaside its distinct charm. While some bungalows have been renovated or replaced, the neighborhood strives to preserve its architectural heritage. Leaside truly offers something for everyone. It’s a blend of history, nature, and modern convenience.