“Brockton Village”, you hear me say. Brockton Village’s story starts with a gift of land. James Brock received Park Lot 30 in the early 1800s. He was the cousin of Sir Isaac Brock. Sir Isaac was a hero in the War of 1812.
James Brock died in 1830. His wife Lucy Brock stepped up. She divided the land for development. Lucy made sure no single person would own it all. She commissioned Brock Avenue in 1850. It runs right through the area’s heart.
Originally, Brockton Village had dirt roads. Planks covered some of them. Residents used old planks as firewood. In 1881, Brockton became the Town of Brockton. Just three years later, in 1884, Toronto annexed it.
Brockton Village became home to many immigrants. Eastern Europeans, Italians and Portuguese residents moved here. They were leaving the city for Toronto’s suburbs. An 1882 Town Hall served many purposes. It was a fire hall, police station and library. The building still stands at Dundas Street and Brock Avenue, now for commercial use.
Abe Orpen leased land for Dufferin Park Racetrack in the early 1900s. The racetrack was very popular. It held 35 horses. The races moved to Woodbine Racetrack in 1955. Dufferin Mall replaced the racetrack later.
McCormick Arena and Park are neighborhood favorites. They offer recreation between Dundas and Queen streets. You will find ice rinks, a baseball diamond, basketball courts, a wading pool and a playground there.
Brockton Village has retained its charm. It has avoided becoming too trendy. Long-time residents and businesses helped preserve its history. The metal street signs still say Village of Brockton.
Dundas Street is vibrant. Murals, boutiques, bars and restaurants line the street. St Helen’s Parish, a Gothic Revival church built in 1909, stands proudly. McCormick Park Playground and Arena host community events.
Most houses in Brockton Village were built between 1880 and 1920. Victorian semi-detached homes and row houses are common. Many homes are painted in cheerful colors.
Big On Bloor is a popular street festival in July. It celebrates local art, music and restaurants. Dufferin Grove Park offers sports facilities and arts programs.
Today, Brockton Village is diverse. It blends old and new. Its history lives on in its streets and buildings. Take a walk around. What stories do you discover in Brockton Village?