Did you know that West Hill got its name from its high position? It sits on the west side of Highland Creek. This deep glacial ravine gives the area a unique character.
Hello everyone. I’m thrilled to share the story of West Hill with you. West Hill is a diverse and evolving neighborhood. It’s located in Scarborough, a part of Toronto.
Let’s journey back to West Hill’s origins. The area’s history began in 1879. John Richardson opened a post office. It was officially named West Hill. But even before that, in the 1840s, Irish immigrants settled here. They were fleeing the potato famine in County Cork. These early settlers shaped the community’s character.
In 1906, a streetcar line came to West Hill. This brought new families. The community grew. West Hill Public School opened. It’s one of Toronto’s oldest schools. The original school was built in the 1880s. A new building replaced it in 1994.
Until World War II, West Hill was mostly rural. Some development happened along Kingston Road. This started in the late 19th century. You can still see some of the oldest buildings along this road.
The streetcar line closed in 1936. This made it harder to get to West Hill by road. But the main bus route from Toronto to Oshawa ran along Kingston Road. So, development began to cluster around Kingston Road in the 1950s. By the mid-1960s, West Hill was growing fast. Many public schools opened for the new families. These families were drawn to the affordable homes.
Many of the houses in West Hill were built in the 1940s, 50s, and 60s. You’ll find bungalows and storey-and-a-half houses. Some new, custom-designed homes are also present. Many old pine and maple trees enhance the landscape. Early on, the area lacked sanitary sewer service. Lots were large to allow for septic tanks. This resulted in generously sized older properties. High-rise apartments were built in the 1970s, mainly along Kingston Road.
West Hill is known for its commitment to art and culture. You can see murals throughout the neighborhood. Robert Matejka’s “Bridging” is on Lawrence Avenue East. Amir Akbari’s “Behind the Lines” and “Our Heroes” are on Kingston Road. These murals were created by youth and community members. The Native Child and Family Life Centre is on Galloway Road. It offers programs for Indigenous children, youth, and adults. The building was originally the Richard Eade House. Built in 1885, it is a designated heritage property.
Kingston Road offers many dining options. Near Morningside Avenue, you can find Indian food. Try Spice Club or Vindaloo Express Indian Cuisine. Further down, there is Afghan Kabob Restaurant. You can also sample Caribbean food at Fire Dutch’s Jamaican Take Out. Danny’s Family Restaurant & Bar is a great spot for food and drinks.
West Hill has many parks. Morningside Park is Toronto’s largest municipal park. It has forests, meadows, and an old apple orchard. Cyclists enjoy the paved trails. In winter, people enjoy cross-country skiing. Colonel Danforth Park is in a deep ravine valley. It’s popular with cyclists, pedestrians, and joggers. Heron Park and Community Centre offers sports facilities. These include a gym, indoor rink, and outdoor pool. Galloway Park has a playground and the Boys and Girls Club of East Scarborough.
Getting around West Hill is easy. Buses connect to the Lawrence East subway station. Highway 401 is a short drive away. This makes it easy to get to downtown Toronto. Kingston Road also provides a scenic route to the city.
West Hill is a diverse and affordable neighborhood. It has natural beauty, a community center, and a public library. You’ll also find an abundance of parkland. Its landmarks include the C.N. railway tracks. The University of Toronto Scarborough Campus is nearby.
West Hill is known for its schools. These include Centennial College-Morningside Campus and the University of Toronto Scarborough. The name “West Hill” comes from its location. It is on the west side of Highland Creek, a deep glacial ravine. West Hill offers a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. It is a great place to live and explore.