A visit to the Enoch Turner Schoolhouse, Toronto’s first free school, is a unique museum experience. It is a journey back in time where today’s children can experience first-hand the life of a working class child in 19th century Toronto.
From the moment they step through the Schoolhouse door, students see and feel what it was like to be a schoolchild in the Victorian era: the wooden desks, the slates, the discipline and the starched collars and pinafores. “Mrs. Henderson” commands their attention as she tells them what children learned in school 150 years ago.
Most programs last 60 minutes or less and are free for most students. Please contact the Ontario Heritage Trust to ask about program pricing. Details of programming include:
In Mrs. Henderson’s Class (Most Popular!)
Experience the classroom rules and the responsibilities of a Victorian school child through a lively re-enactment of a morning at an 1858 Toronto school. Then compare with school today. Students will learn arithmetic, spelling, history and geography under the guidance of our strict schoolmistress Mrs. Henderson. Ideal for students aged 6-11.
Dancing and Decorum in 19th Century Ontario
Students discover the importance of dance as a social activity in 19th-century society, as well as the emphasis placed on behaviour and etiquette – through the popular music of Victorian Toronto. During the lesson, each class will learn the “Sir Roger de Coverley,” an English country dance, and get a taste of Victorian social life. Ideal for students aged 6-11.
Settling in the City: Immigrants in Early Modern Toronto
Learn about the men, women and children who moved to Canada 100 years ago, and how they helped create a new, modern country. Ideal for students aged 10-13.
Settling in the City Walking Tour
Explore the historic Corktown neighbourhood, visiting sites that were significant to Toronto’s immigrant population and industrial growth in the early 20th century. Ideal for students aged 10-13.
Victorian Childhood
What was it like growing up as a child in an industrial city? Students learn what toys children in Corktown would have played with, and will take part in traditional Victorian games. Ideal for students aged 6-11.
To inquire about any of the programs, or to book a school visit, please contact
Tel: 416-327-6997
Enoch Turner Schoolhouse Foundation 