A Fond Farewell to the Leslieville Dollhouse: New Owners Share the Joy

Toronto’s beloved ‘Leslieville Dollhouse’, known for its whimsical decorations and eclectic collection, recently hosted a heartwarming giveaway that drew a large crowd of eager residents looking to take home a slice of local history. The new owners, Bradley Sutherland and his partner, opened their doors on a sunny Sunday to distribute hundreds of dolls, stuffed animals, and various knick-knacks that have charmed passersby for over two decades.

“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,” said Sutherland, reflecting the nostalgia that enveloped the event.

Crowds gather for a chance to take home a piece of the dollhouse.

The Leslieville Dollhouse, located at the bustling intersection of Queen Street and Jones Avenue, has been a fixture in the community, celebrated for its vibrant adornments and the imaginative spirit of its previous owner. Shirley Sumaisar, who filled her yard with a delightful array of toys and decorations over the past fifty years, reluctantly decided to sell her home in order to focus on her health and family.

“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,” shared her son, Tom, illustrating the emotional toll the move has taken on the family.

The property was listed for sale at $999,000 this past July and quickly found new owners in Sutherland and his partner, who purchased it for $900,000. Determined to honor the spirit of the home and its contributions to the community, they organized the giveaway as a charity event aligned with MLSE’s Change the Game campaign, which supports youth initiatives across Toronto.

A Community-Centric Approach

The decision to host a giveaway rather than simply discarding the cherished items melds seamlessly with Sutherland’s vision for their new beginning at 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 explained, emphasizing the importance of community engagement.

As attendees arrived, the atmosphere was filled with stories and laughter as families left with mementos that hold memories of a home that will forever be associated with Toronto’s quirky charm. The new owners plan to renovate the three-bedroom semi-detached house while retaining its historical essence by involving the community in its rebirth.

Imagining the next chapter of the Dollhouse.

With its rich history and iconic stature, the Leslieville Dollhouse will be missed by many who have cherished its unique character. But thanks to the goodwill of its new owners, the legacy of its whimsical decor will live on in the hearts and homes of those who received a treasured item from the giveaway.

As we look forward to the future of the Leslieville Dollhouse, let us take a moment to appreciate the joy it has brought to our community and the new beginnings that are yet to come.

Conclusion

The Leslieville Dollhouse stands as a testament to community spirit, nostalgia, and the joy of shared memories. Through thoughtful action in giving back, its new owners ensure that the quirky charm of this beloved landmark remains not just in its physical form, but as a cherished part of Toronto’s unique cultural fabric.