Articles by Ted DeWelles

Elvis Presley delivered only five performances outside the U.S. during his career. All five took place in Canada in 1957. The King did two shows in Toronto on April 2, two more in Ottawa on …more

Leaside has had more than its share of interesting and unique homes. Maybe you know some of them: -The famous Octagon House of John Lea, after whom Leaside was named. -“Divadale,” the long-gone mansion of …more

In the 1950s and early 1960s, Leaside was home to two entertainers who claimed to have the only musical act of its kind in North America. Their names were Arthur and Mabel Guinness – aka …more

Anyone who’s watched National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation will remember the scene where Clark Griswold switches on a blinding display of outdoor Christmas lights at his home, nearly draining the city’s electricity supply. Clark’s obsession with …more

As Torontonians prepare to vote later this month, some Leasiders may remember when this community had its own mayoralty elections. One of the most memorable occurred in December 1962 between Leaside councillor Beth Nealson and …more

As the COVID pandemic has shown, some people will always suspect – and resist – public health measures. This was certainly true in Leaside during the mid-20th century. The issue was fluoridation – adding fluoride …more

From 1924 into the 1970s, Canada Varnish Ltd. was among Leaside’s most established companies. The firm manufactured paints and varnishes at its plant on Canvarco Road off Laird Drive, and its founder/president, Rupert E. Edwards …more

To the adults and children who go there to socialize and play, R.V. Burgess Park at 46 Thorncliffe Park Drive is a popular and valued community asset. But like many other civic landmarks in Toronto …more