New Owners Celebrate Legacy of Toronto’s Leslieville Dollhouse

In a heartwarming community event, the new proprietors of Toronto’s enchanting “Leslieville Dollhouse” opened the doors of their iconic home to local residents, inviting them to partake in a unique giveaway. On September 29th, a vibrant crowd descended upon the property, eager to collect memorabilia from a corner of the city that has delighted passersby for over two decades. This generous act of goodwill included a variety of dolls, stuffed animals, and other nostalgic trinkets that have come to characterize the residence.

Community members cherish a piece of history from the Leslieville Dollhouse.

Bradley Sutherland, who purchased the property with his partner just last month, shared the thought behind this remarkable gesture: “We wanted to give people an opportunity to come out and have one last look at it, take a piece home, and go from there.” This thoughtful giveaway not only marks the end of an era for the beloved house but also for its former owner, Shirley Sumaisar, who devoted more than 50 years to cultivating the home’s signature charm.

A Farewell to the Dollhouse

The Leslieville Dollhouse, located at the intersection of Queen Street and Jones Avenue, has served as a whimsical landmark in the neighborhood. Shirley Sumaisar, the previous owner, began adorning her home with an eclectic mix of dolls and toys, creating a visual tapestry that reflected both her personality and the joy she found in her collection. However, as her son Tom revealed, the family recently decided it was time to sell the house to prioritize Shirley’s health and well-being.

“This is my mom’s life… She’s very upset that she’s going to leave, but it’s for her health and to be safer and closer to family,” Tom shared. “It is a sad time for us. My mom loves her house. She wishes she could stay here, but it’s just too big to maintain.”

The property was listed for approximately $999,000 and eventually sold for $900,000, a reflection of both its storied past and the changing real estate landscape in Toronto.

Turning a New Leaf

Upon acquiring the property, Sutherland and his partner announced their plans to renovate the charming, semi-detached house, a three-bedroom abode filled with potential. Yet, before they could begin the refurbishment, they felt compelled to pass on the artifacts that had captured the hearts of so many. This resulted in the community event where attendees could exchange donations for a piece of the dollhouse.

In partnership with the MLSE’s “Change the Game” campaign, the owners facilitated a charitable component to the event. Each doll or stuffed animal recipients collected came with a request for a cash or online donation to support youth initiatives throughout the city. Sutherland expressed the joy in giving back to the community: “It’s a great organization that helps youth in the city, and this home has brought so much joy to youth in the city, so we thought it would be a great alignment to give back.”

The community comes together to celebrate the Leslieville Dollhouse’s legacy.

The event not only honored the nostalgic memories associated with the dollhouse but also supported a cause aimed at fostering a brighter future for Toronto’s youth. Through the warm gestures of the new owners and the smiles of the gathered crowd, the legacy of the Leslieville Dollhouse will continue to resonate in the hearts of many.

In an era where neighborhood jewels like the Leslieville Dollhouse are increasingly rare, moments like these remind us of the importance of connection, community, and the shared history that binds us all together. As the new owners prepare for the next chapter, they carry with them the fond memories of those they welcomed through their doors and the joy that this iconic home has provided to generations.

Conclusion

As the city changes and evolves, the stories held within its borders, much like the treasures of the Leslieville Dollhouse, remain timeless. The recent giveaway stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of community and a heartfelt reminder that while places may change, the memories forged within their walls will forever carry on.