Downsview derives its name from John Perkins Bull, who settled in this area around 1842. Bull named his farm "Downs View" as his property was situated on one of the highest elevations in Toronto.
The John Perkins Bull house is still standing today at 450 Rustic Road where it is presently in use as a nursing home.
For over a hundred years Downsview was a thriving agricultural community with its own general store, schoolhouse, and post office. The pillar of this community was the red brick Downsview United Church. Built in 1870, this church is still standing in its original location at 2822 Keele Street.
Overview
Downsview began a new chapter in it's history in 1928 when the world famous De Havilland Aircraft Company chose Downsview as it's home. The Canadian Armed Forces followed De Havilland to Downsview setting up an important military base in Downsview during World War Two. Once the war was over Downsview experienced a building boom which saw the entire neighbourhood developed by the early 1970's.
Downsview is one of Toronto's largest neighborhoods. It has a large Italian community centered around Keele Street as well as a large Jewish community centered around Bathurst Street and Wilson Avenue.
The dominant landmark in this neighbourhood is the former Canadian Armed Forces Base which is now known as the Downsview Lands. This property stretches from Keele Street to Wilson Heights and from Wilson Avenue to Sheppard Avenue. The Downsview Lands are currently being redeveloped. They will encompass a variety of uses including public parkland, residential housing, commercial businesses, and sports and entertainment complexes.
Houses
Downsview's original housing stock dates from the 1950's and 1960's. These detached, semi-detached and split level houses are situated on suburban size lots with private driveways. Balmoral a subdivision of newer custom designed brick and stone houses are located in the north-east pocket of Downsview, off Wilson Heights Boulevard.
Downsview contains a number of residential streets that back on to greenbelts and parkland. Many of these houses are custom-built to take advantage of their lush surroundings.
Schools
(P) Calico, 35 Calico Dr., 395-2130
(P) Chalkfarm, 100 Chalkfarm Dr., (416) 395-2160
(P) Beverley Heights M.S. 26 Troutbrooke, (416) 395-3000
(P) Dellcrest, 1633 Sheppard Ave., (416) 395-2290
(P) Pierre Laporte M.S. (416) 1270 Wilson Ave., (416) 395-3070
(P) Downsview, 2829 Keele St., (416) 395-2340
(P) Maple Leaf, 301 Culford Rd., (416) 395-2670
(PH) Downsview S.S., 7 Hawksdale Rd., (416) 395-3200
(PH) Nelson A. Boylen, 155 Falstaff Ave., (416) 395-3270
(CA) St. Conrad, 610 Roding St., (416) 393-5396
(CA) Madonna, 20 Dubray Ave., (416) 393-5506
(PR) St. James Academy, (416) 781-7900
Legend:
(P) Public School
(PH) Public High School
(CA) Catholic School
(PR) Private School
(PC) Private Catholic School
(PJ) Private Jewish School
(C) College
(U) University
Below is a sample of addresses in this area. If you want a detailed specific similiar list in your area please contact us. Thank You.
This area has mostly Detached 3 bedroom bungalows.
Anthony Rd, Heavitree Dr, Victory Dr, Leila Jackson Terr, Torbarrie Rd, Nash Dr, Chappel Hill Rd, Frederick Tisdale Dr, Smallwood Dr, Powell Rd, Thurrock Rd, Jim Baird Mews, Odoardo Di Santo Circ, Deevale Rd, Loney Ave, Tumpane St, Datchet Rd, Winston Park Blvd, Rambler Pl, Epsom Downs Dr, Yvonne Ave, Hallsport Cres.
Condo Apartments
Jane St, James Finlay Way, Keele St, George Appleton Way, William Duncan Rd, Winston Park Blvd.
Want to know what your home is worth? In addition to sending you details on properties sold and available on your street, we will also provide you with a free home appraisal. Click the free evaluation link below to get started - either online, by phone or in person.
Free Home Evaluation - Click Here
Call for a free confidential market evaluation for your home.
**Source - Your Guide to Toronto Neighbourhoods. Maple Tree Publishing**