Lynn Tribbling

This picturesque spot where the Humber River embraces the sparkling shores of Lake Ontario, has a long and interesting history.

 

Prior to the 1850's, when first settlements appeared, Humber Bay was a trading hub for native Indians bringing fur pelts to distribute to urban markets. The name Mimico is an aboriginal word, translated from Ojibwe, which means "place where wild pigeons gather."

 

In the late1800's, the site became a popular recreation destination for vacationers and nature-lovers seeking refuge from the bustle of Muddy York. South Etobicoke was a wilderness paradise attracting travelers by horse and buggy, or a weekend ferry trip across the lake to this new Mimico cottage country.

 

By the early 1900's, rich industrialists built opulent summer mansions along the shoreline to capture the magnificent waterfront views and serene lifestyle. If you explore the Lake Shore and Royal York neighbourhood, you can still discover remnants of the former glory. An original coach house, ornate fountain and Romanesque garden statues can be found in Amadeo Garden Court, which recall the grandeur of these early beach houses built by tycoons.