Yonge and Gould/Then and Now

The N/E corner of Yonge and Gould in 1950.

Another stitch up from the archives. The east side of Yonge north of Gould in 1950.
From the right, the bank and Brown's Sports and Cycle would soon be demolished and replaced by a modern bank, while McDonald and Willson and the diner next to it would soon become Sam the Record Man. Brown's Sports and Cycle is still in business in Bloor West.
A closer view of the photo reveals some interesting motorcycles in the window.
The remains of Sam's last year. Today there's nothing left...

Sad Day at Yonge and Gould/Then and Now

The S/E corner of Yonge and Gould in 1950 when this building (1888) was the Edison Hotel.
Formerly known as the Empress Hotel.
Before the wall collapse.
After the collapse.

By 2010 the building was empty due to a collapse of the north wall a year earlier. Although designated a historical site no repairs were made.
On January 2, 2011 a devastating fire that started early in the morning destroyed what was left of the structure and now there is absolutely no chance to restore this Designated Historical Site..
A convenient way to get around a demolition permit.
Jane Jacobs would be very disappointed....
Jane Jacobs.