Among the many Canada Day celebrations this
July 1st, 2008 also included the official opening of The Tollkeeper’s Cottage, circa 1835, located at Bathurst Street and Davenport Road. It was in this 20 by 30 foot cottage that Tollgate No.3 operator lived with his wife and seven children.
Back in the 1800’s as major road improvement became necessary the government of Upper Canada allowed incorporated companies to build specific sections of roads, maintain and recoup their investment with the collection of tolls. These private companies hired men to operate the tollgates.
The preservation of this timepiece was made possible with the help of members from the Community History Project, over 500 individuals, organizations, companies, and a supportive city councillor.
City Councillor Joe Mihevec, Jane Beecroft and volunteers
