Welcome to the Swansea Historical Society
The Swansea Historical Society was started in 1985 by a group of people who were interested in preserving and promoting the unique history of the Swansea area — a community which has its roots in the former Village of Swansea that was amalgamated by the City of Toronto in 1967. The Society is a registered charity and all of its work is done by a group of dedicated volunteers.
Activities (new!!)
Our president, Ken Stark, has put together two self-guided activities for those eager to explore Swansea and learn more about its history and geography. Please click on the two links below to download the files—one contains details on where one can find the “many steps” of our hilly neighbourhood and the other a guide to a variety of historical landmarks.
(2) Swansea and Surrounding Area Commemorative Plaques and Historic Signs
Upcoming Events
We are pleased to share that the Swansea Community Centre (Town Hall) is looking forward to hosting an open house on June the 13th. The Historical Society will be present as well, where visitors can come see our archives and celebrate our heritage.
On Saturday, the 13th of June, we will be celebrating our centennial year!
100 years ago, Swansea became an independent village. Since amalgamating with the City of Toronto in 1967, Swansea has retained its community spirit, independent perspective, and is a great place to live.
As Swansea enters its centennial year, we are honored to launch a community-wide celebration. From special events and commemorations, the year ahead will offer many opportunities for residents of all ages to come together and take part in this once-in-a-century milestone.
Everyone is welcome to attend. Stay tuned for more details!
News
The Swansea Historical Society is actively welcoming new members!
If interested, please send us a message through our contact form.
The SHS is a charming group where you can learn more about our local history and uncover surprising details that contextualize many aspects of this neighbourhood’s physical and social character. Explore our website and bookmark your calendars for our upcoming in-person meetings!
Volunteer!
The Swansea Historical Society is a registered charity – and all of its work is done by a small group of dedicated volunteers. We can always benefit from more help and fresh ideas!
Previous experience is not a requirement, and you don’t have be an expert in local history in order to participate. We have some vacancies that need to be filled:
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Refreshment Coordinator
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Newsletter & Publicity Coordinator
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SHS Representative to the Swansea Town Hall Board of Management
- Walking Tour Leader / Coordinator
In addition to filling jobs with ongoing responsibilities, we are also happy to welcome people on-board as “Executive Members Without Portfolio”, who may be asked to participate in specific initiatives from time to time.
Please give some thought as to how you could contribute even a small amount of your time and talent, and let us know of any ideas you might have. Or, perhaps you know of someone you would like to recommend (with that person’s permission) for a position on the Executive. Read more about Volunteering at the Swansea Historical Society.
Donate to the Swansea Historical Society
We are grateful for any financial support our members can provide. The Swansea Historical Society is a registered charity, qualified to issue tax receipts for donations. You can now donate to us in order to help fund events such as Walk The Six West and other great historical events.
We are pleased to announce that the Swansea Historical Society can now accept payments electronically. This e-transfer approach can be used to make donations to the Society, pay membership fees, purchase publications, etc. We invite you to give it a try.
View our donate page to find out more.
About Swansea
Located in the west end of Toronto, Ontario in Canada, the community of Swansea is bounded by High Park on the east, the Humber River on the west, the railway tracks on the south, and a line 110′ south of Bloor St. W. on the north. The Village of Swansea existed as a separate municipality from 1926 until 1967, and in many respects it still retains a village atmosphere. Read more about the history of Swansea. and Where Exactly is Swansea, Toronto?
Historical Advocacy
In its advocacy role, the Society seeks to raise awareness of developments that potentially threaten the historic fabric of the community. Read more about the Society.
View more Swansea “Then and Now” photos
Historical Publications
The Society has produced several publications on local history, including a monthly Newsletter, postings on Twitter and Instagram social media, and an annual Community Calendar featuring historical photographs.
Historical Events
The Society’s events are always open to the public and anyone interested in the history of the area, as well as current developments, is encouraged to join us in our activities. Monthly meetings at Swansea Town Hall include informative and entertaining talks by invited guest speakers on a variety of subjects. Guided walking tours introduce participants to lesser-known aspects of Swansea and area. We also list upcoming community events.
Swansea Historical Archives
The Swansea Historical Society Archive collection in Swansea Town Hall is used by researchers and students as a source of information, and it is also used by people who want to learn about their family connections in Swansea or trace the history of their properties. And if you have old photographs and memorabilia of the Swansea area including Bloor West Village, High Park, and the Humber River, please let us know!
Get Involved!
There are many ways to get involved! View our events page to see what’s new, volunteer , visit, follow us on Twitter and Instagram – we’d love to hear from you.