In 1901, the Margaret Eaton School of Expression was established by University of Toronto teacher, Emma Scott Raff. Over the years, this women's academy would gain renown, giving rise to talented women in the dramatic arts and physical education. Early courses included literature, drama, physical culture and rhetoric. Raff's teaching philosophy soon drew the attention of Margaret Eaton, wife of retail magnate, Timothy Eaton. Margaret Eaton financially supported the erection of a home for the newly renamed Margaret Eaton School of Literature and Expression. Built in 1905, the new school building on today's Bay Street soon became a landmark in Toronto. Designed by WR Mead, it resembled a Greek temple, with a short stepped entrance and columns facing the street. In this photo dated shortly after the building's opening, young students stand proudly outside, sporting the uniforms of the day.
During the reconfiguration of Bay Street, the building was demolished. Over the years, the school changed locations, vision and names, eventually amalgamating with the University of Toronto in the early 1940's.
Research by Maya Bilbao