TORONTO HYDRO-ELECTRIC SUBSTATION #8

TORONTO HYDRO-ELECTRIC SUBSTATION #8
1916 (with additions)
This two-storey substation was built by the Toronto Hydro-Electric System (THES) to provide
electricity for homes, factories, and other businesses in this fast-growing part of the city. Under
the supervision of THES architect Albert Salisbury, the company built an Edwardian Classical
structure that was big enough to hide large electrical transformers and switches within its walls.
The red brick and terracotta façade was decorated with pilasters and large windows with
round tops. During its first 10 years, the substation included a storefront at its northwest
corner where customers could pay bills and buy electrical appliances such as cookers,
irons, and fans. The building was greatly expanded in 1924 and 1929
and it remains an active electrical substation.
City of Toronto Heritage Register
HERITAGE TORONTO 2018



Submitted by @heritagetoronto.