“East End Gospel Hall” somebody said. That’s what Danforth Gospel Hall was once known as. It stood on the eastern side of Toronto. The year was 1899. Imagine believers gathering here. They sought the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.
Let’s step back in time together right here on Danforth Avenue. We are standing in front of the Danforth Gospel Hall. It’s more than just a building. It’s a testament to faith and community.
In the late 19th century, Christian assemblies thrived in Toronto. There was Central Gospel Hall. There was also Brock Avenue Gospel Hall. And East End Gospel Hall.
A small group of believers started meeting east of East End Gospel Hall. It was the spring or summer of 1899. They gathered in Brotherson’s Hall. It was located on Danforth Avenue just west of Dawes Road. The hall was above a wagon and harness shop. Part of it was even above a blacksmith’s shop.
Brotherson’s Hall wasn’t ideal. It lacked conveniences. Water came from a pump across the road. Coal oil lamps provided light. A stove heated the space. Access was via narrow wooden stairs. Sisters needed footstools in winter due to the cold floors. Yet, here the work of the Lord began.
Mr. E.B. Steen gets credit for starting the work. Christians at East End Gospel Hall encouraged and supported him.
The Christians moved from Brotherson’s Hall. They met at the Y.M.C.A Hall. It was next to the York Railway Station. This is now the Danforth GO Station. Next, they moved to Morton’s Hall at 82 Swanwick Avenue. Mr. Morton charged $4.00 a month. That’s about $132 today.
From Morton’s Hall, they went to Snell’s Hall. It was at Main Street and Gerrard Street East. Later, they returned to Swanwick Avenue. They had gas lights but still no water.
The group decided to settle permanently. They purchased land east of Morton’s Hall on Swanwick Avenue. It was between Osbourne and Kimberly. Morton Hall became a bungalow on the west lot. On the east side, they built a hall for the assembly. A brother took out a mortgage.
Soon after building, they expanded the hall. This doubled its size to accommodate more Christians.
Many prominent brethren were connected. They aided the work and growth. These men included Robert Steen and A.R. Myers. Also James Gunn Sr and David Miller. Leonard and Frank Sheldrake too. Harry Cox, Alex Sinclair, William Baillie, George Hall, and Roy Littleproud helped.
The assembly grew steadily. New premises were needed. The Christians gave generously. A lot was purchased at 2237 Danforth Avenue. Building began. On October 1st, 1950, they met for the first time to break bread at Danforth Gospel Hall. It was one of the largest Christian gatherings in the city. This is evident by the size of the new hall. Reynold Woodward, James Russell, and Andrew Johnston were active in the assembly’s work.
Today the assembly still gathers at Danforth Gospel Hall. A body of Christians faithfully attend. They take an active role in the work of the Lord.
So remember the journey. From humble beginnings to this location. Danforth Gospel Hall stands as a beacon of faith. It has been a place of community for over a century.