Farewell to the Leslieville Dollhouse: A Community’s Heartfelt Goodbye

Toronto’s beloved Leslieville Dollhouse, famed for its whimsical display of dolls and stuffed animals, held a remarkable event this Sunday that attracted a crowd eager to take home a piece of local history. The newly minted owners of the beloved east-end property, Bradley Sutherland and his partner, organized a heartfelt giveaway to share the charm and memories of this iconic home with the community.

The iconic Leslieville Dollhouse, a cherished landmark in Toronto.

The new caretakers of the historic residence near Queen Street and Jones Avenue opened their doors to the public, allowing visitors to explore the home one last time while collecting various dolls, toys, and vibrant pieces that once decorated the yard. Sutherland explained, “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 sentiment resonated deeply with visitors, many of whom had cherished memories linked to the dollhouse as they passed by over the years.

The Legacy of Shirley Sumaisar

The Leslieville Dollhouse was previously owned by Shirley Sumaisar, who nurtured the property for over half a century. Residing on Bertmount Avenue, her collection of trinkets amassed over decades began to spill charmingly into her front yard, captivating all who walked by.

In an emotional reflection, Sumaisar’s son, Tom, explained the family’s decision to sell the property, emphasizing their commitment to ensuring his mother’s 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,” he shared with a heavy heart. Each doll and teddy bear laid out during the giveaway echoed the love and attention that Shirley had poured into her home, making the event even more poignant.

A New Chapter Begins

After listing the property for $999,000 and eventually selling it for slightly less, the new owners are set to embark on renovations to alter the home’s aesthetic while also preserving its cultural significance. Sutherland noted the importance of parting with the unique ornaments before beginning these changes, reflecting on the joy the house had brought to countless children and families in the city.

In a wonderful twist of fate, the giveaway was tied to a charitable event in partnership with the MLSE’s Change the Game campaign. Attendees were encouraged to make a donation in exchange for their newfound treasures, ensuring that the spirit of giving continued beyond the nostalgic value of the dollhouse.

“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,” Sutherland stated.

Community members expressing their fondness for the Leslieville Dollhouse.

The Dollhouse’s Impact on Toronto

For the better part of two decades, the Leslieville Dollhouse acted as a beacon of whimsy amid the urban landscape. Residents and visitors alike have savored the intriguing sight of fairy-tale like decorations that dot the property. As it stands, the dollhouse’s legacy is one of community spirit, joy, and imagination, strongly tied to the lives of those who passed by.

Sutherland and his partner’s intentions to modernize and maintain certain elements of the home’s charm should excite the locals who have come to adore this whimsical landmark. It’s a new chapter for the Leslieville Dollhouse, one that revolves around embracing change while honoring the richly woven fabric of its history within the neighborhood.

Conclusion: A Fond Farewell

As the last pieces of memorabilia found new homes, the community gathered to celebrate what the Leslieville Dollhouse represented: creativity, nostalgia, and unity. This special farewell marks the end of an era that many will hold dear, but it also heralds the potential for fresh beginnings in the neighborhood. The new owners step forward, ready to write the next chapter of this beloved Toronto icon’s story with the same verve and appreciation that its previous owner poured into it.

In coming together, the Toronto community demonstrated the power of connection surrounding a simple dollhouse filled with cherished memories. Unlike any other landmark in the city, the Leslieville Dollhouse will remain a fond part of the collective heart of Toronto, forever sparking joy and creativity.

The spirit of community witnessed through the lens of a whimsical home.