Spruce Court stands as one of Canada’s earliest examples of publicly supported rental housing. This plaque commemorates more than just bricks and mortar. It marks the beginning of a social experiment in Toronto.
The Toronto Housing Company, a group of reformers, business leaders, and city representatives, spearheaded this project. They sought to address an affordable housing crisis. Inspired by the Garden City movement, they commissioned Eden Smith and Sons. The architectural firm designed this complex and Riverdale Courts. Riverdale Courts is now the Bain Apartments Co-operative.
Imagine 32 cottage flats nestled around a grassy courtyard. Picture six townhouses designed in the English Cottage style. Each had street-level entrances and arched brick porches. This was the original Spruce Court. In 1925, Mathers and Haldenby added 40 more flats. These were on Sumach Street. They featured steep shingled roofs and half-timbered gables.
Did you know Spruce Court almost disappeared? Changes in ownership and building conditions caused concern. Residents formed the Spruce Court Co-operative in 1978. They acquired the property the following year.
Spruce Court’s history is a testament to community resilience. It also demonstrates the power of co-operative living. The original rents were about $25 a month. That was half the monthly wages of an ordinary worker.
Spruce Court became a resident-owned housing co-operative in 1978. Spruce Court and Bain represent the first attempt to create low-income public housing in Canada. They intended to alleviate poor living conditions. They also wanted to address expensive rents for workers. The Ontario Housing Act of 1913 enabled these developments.
The Spruce Street courtyard was completed in 1926. The Sumach St. courtyard was built in 1913. This unique complex has 78 apartments in two- and three-story buildings.
Spruce Court embodies a vision. The vision combines the best of city and country living. It offers a central location, urban conveniences, and access to nature. Lady Eaton was a member of the philanthropic organization behind it.
During the 1940s and 50s, Spruce Court thrived. It was known for its beautiful flower gardens. By the late 1960s, the property declined. In 1974, tenants formed an association. They convinced the City of Toronto to buy the property. Spruce Court became the city’s first non-profit housing acquisition.
Today, Spruce Court stands as a reminder of our city’s commitment to affordable housing. It also demonstrates how a community can take control of its destiny. The Heritage Toronto plaque marks this important chapter. It is a symbol of social progress.