Looking southwest toward the clock tower, originally part of Yonge Street Fire Hall No. 3 and later the St Charles Tavern, located north of College St in the Downtown Yonge area of Toronto.
Built in 1871 and designed by architects Irving & Grand, the fire hall once at 484-488 Yonge St was in active use until 1928. After that, it became a car wash and then a tire dealership. In 1950, the building was again repurposed as the St Charles restaurant and cocktail bar, as shown in the archive photo. Over the next few decades, the St Charles Tavern became a popular destination for the gay community, hosting many drag shows.
After the St Charles closed in 1987, it continued to house a variety of nightclubs. Recently, the heritage-designated clock tower along the neighbouring building, once home to Syd Silver Formals, have been restored and incorporated into the 45-storey tower called Halo Residences.
Then and Now
SOURCE
- Photo: Denise Marie for TorontoJourney416
- Vintage Photo: Toronto Public Library
