GGR124 Assignment 1-2
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School
University of Toronto *
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Course
124
Subject
History
Date
Apr 3, 2024
Type
Pages
4
Uploaded by ColonelDolphinMaster1035
Urban Transformations 1: Orientations
Worksheet
Site:
The Annex
Flemingdon Park
South Riverdale
1. Treaties & Indigenous Geographies
-
Consider the territory where your neighbourhood is located. Which treaties govern this
land? Please discuss when relevant treaties were signed, between whom, and the types of
relations they set out between parties. Have these treaties been honoured? Identify and
briefly describe one local (urban) site that marks contemporary Indigenous geographies.
Answer: (max 200 words)
The annex is regulated by The Treaty of Niagara which was signed in 1764 by representatives of
the British Crown and the Haudenosaunee Confederacy, and treaty 13 which was signed in 1805
by Mississaugas of the Credit. Indigenous peoples in Canada say that the government has failed
to uphold treaties and the Canadian government’s responsibilities regarding these treaties remain
unresolved with many constraints. Native peoples have played a significant influence in
Toronto's history. Before Europeans arrived, the area was well-known for its abundant natural
resources, as indicated by the titles the Native people gave to numerous geographical features in
The Annex. Many of these names are still used in shorter forms today, such as "Spadina," which
was "I-shpa-di-naa," an Anishinaabe term for a hill or sudden rise in the land. Another example
is the Davenport Road street sign at Spadina Road, which displays the Indigenous term
"Gete-Onigaming," which translates to "old portage trail," at the top. It refers to the fact that this
section of Davenport Road was previously a route that went east and west through the Toronto
area. These both can be described as local urban places that represent contemporary Indigenous
geographies as they both serve as symbols of Indigenous peoples' ongoing presence and
contributions to the city.
2. Environment & Infrastructure
-
What are the defining physical (natural and built) features of your neighbourhood? What
are the primary land uses (industrial, residential, commercial, recreational) and densities?
Have these changed over time? What infrastructures appear to be present or are lacking?
Answer: (max 150 words)
The Annex is one of Toronto's most famous neighbourhoods, with its unique buildings and rich
history. The Annex housing is unique and a good illustration of Toronto's rich architectural
beginnings, with homes in a variety of styles including Victorian, Queen Anne, and
Richardsonian Romanesque features. The Annex is primarily residential, with roads lined with
tall trees overpowering the enormous Victorian and Edwardian homes, most of which were
constructed between 1880 and the early 1900s. This area also features over 500 buildings that are
protected by the Toronto Historical Board, which prevents developers from uprooting the
original homes' historical significance. These big grand mansions have pyramidal roofs, turrets,
archways, and they are frequently constructed of rich red brick. In the years following 1910, the
architecture of new buildings evolved slightly towards homes that were simpler in design with
less elaborate embellishments.
3. Economic Activity
-
What economic activities have characterised the neighbourhood over time? Are those
activities meant to serve local communities or wider geographies? Why were those
activities located in this particular neighbourhood? What kinds of relationships do you
see between the site’s physical environment and the dominant economic activity in the
site?
Answer: (max 150 words)
The Annex is a dynamic community that has seen numerous economic changes over time. The
University of Toronto is located in the Annex, and the presence of students and academics can
help to create a thriving economy with bookstores, cafes, and other academic-related enterprises.
The Annex has a history as a cultural hotspot, welcoming artists and entertainers. These activities
are intended to serve wider geographies since economic activities associated with arts and
entertainment, such as galleries, museums, and music venues, can benefit the local economy and
attract tourists who visit the city. The physical environment of The Annex in Toronto has a
considerable impact on economic activity. For example, accessibility to major roads, and public
transportation might attract businesses that rely on foot traffic and mobility. Parks, cafes,
restaurants, and businesses may benefit from increased foot traffic from those who appreciate
spending time outdoors.
4. Social & Cultural Geography
-
Which groups and communities live in this area today, and how has this changed over
time? What are some key characteristics of the contemporary population? Please consider
key indicators including immigration, income, housing type and tenure, and language.
Answer: (max 150 words)
The Annex is noted for its cultural diversity, with residents from a wide range of ethnic and
cultural origins. This diversity adds to a dynamic and welcoming community environment. The
University of Toronto's location in The Annex has traditionally drawn a large student population.
Students may live in the region for the duration of their studies, which contributes to a vibrant
and youthful atmosphere. The neighbourhood is recognized for its antique architecture and
high-end homes. As a result, there is a greater concentration of affluent residents, which
contributes to a better socioeconomic level in some locations. Its population is primarily
English-speaking and well-educated. However, by the 1920s, The Annex had declined as
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