Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Commercial building plans and drawings series
Level
File
ID
Fonds 49; Series 3; File 4
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Commercial building plans and drawings series
Level
File
Fonds
49
Series
3
File
4
Material Format
architectural drawing
Date
1935
Physical Description
4 architectural drawings : pencil on tracing paper ; 62 cm length or smaller and 4 cm diam.
Scope and Content
File consists of architectural drawings for the conversion of a three storey building into a hotel at the S.W. corner of Queen and Augusta for Mr. Max Sherman. Floor plans and elevation drawings are included.
Name Access
Sherman, Max
Physical Condition
Material is fragile and somewhat torn.
Places
Augusta Avenue (Toronto. Ont.)
Queen Street West (Toronto, Ont.)
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Commercial building plans and drawings series
Level
File
ID
Fonds 49; Series 3; File 3
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Commercial building plans and drawings series
Level
File
Fonds
49
Series
3
File
3
Material Format
architectural drawing
textual record
Date
[ca.1935]
Physical Description
9 architectural drawings : 6 blueprints, 3 pencil ; 44 cm length or smaller and 6 cm diam.
1 folder of textual records
Admin History/Bio
Joseph and Abraham Lewis were the joint owners of the Dominion Printing Company, whose head office was at 259 Spadina Avenue.
Scope and Content
File contains architectural drawings of a two storey residence being converted into a single storey printing facility at 92 McCaul St. for Mr. Joseph Lewis. Several floor plans, sections, and elevation drawings are contained within. Also included is a fourteen page specification booklet detailing the work to be done on the building.
Name Access
Lewis, Joseph
Places
McCaul Street (Toronto, Ont.)
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Commercial building plans and drawings series
Level
File
ID
Fonds 49; Series 3; File 37
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Commercial building plans and drawings series
Level
File
Fonds
49
Series
3
File
37
Material Format
architectural drawing
Date
[ca. 1946]
Physical Description
2 architectural drawings : blueprints ; 40 cm length or smaller and 4 cm diam.
Admin History/Bio
Percy Hermant was born in Mogilev, Russia in 1882. In 1897, he immigrated to Canada, arriving in New Brunswick, where he began working as a drygoods peddler. In 1900, he founded the Imperial Optical Company, the first prescription lens business in the Maritimes. This company eventually grew to be the largest company of its kind in the British Commonwealth. The head office was located in the Hermant Building (named for Percy) at 21 Dundas Square. In addition to his successful business, Mr. Hermant served as the director of both the Mount Sinai and Runnymede hospitals. He was also a member of the Toronto Board of Trade and other established societies such as the Primrose, and Empire Clubs.
Mr. Hermant was very active in philanthropy and involved in the funding and establishment of the Young Men's Hebrew Association (YMHA), and in the funding of the Associated Hebrew Universities. Mr. Hermant also established several scholarships at the University of Toronto, including the Percy Hermant Fellowship in Ophthalmology for graduates of Medicine who wish to pursue ophthalmology as a profession. Mr. Hermant died in 1959 and was survived by his wife Dorothy, son Sydney and four grandchildren.
Scope and Content
File consists of two block plans for a storage building at 179 Ontario Street for Percy Hermant.
Notes
Benjamin Brown's office was also located in the Hermant building during the 1940s.
Related Material
See File 49-3-97 for the architectural drawings of the Hermant Building.
See File 49-3-106 for the architectural drawings of the Hermant Annex.
See File 49-3-58 for the architectural plans of a factory for Imperial Optical Co. at 270 Ontario Street and for an administrative history of Imperial Optical.
See File 49-3-63 for the architectural plans of alterations to the ground floor of the Hermant Building.
See File 49-3-100 for architectural drawings of Montgomery's Tavern, located on the ground floor of the Hermant Building.
See File 49-3-93 for the architectural drawings of a factory for Imperial Optical at the S.W. corner of Dundas and Ontario Streets.
Places
Ontario Street (Toronto, Ont.)
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Commercial building plans and drawings series
Level
File
ID
Fonds 49; Series 3; File 74
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Commercial building plans and drawings series
Level
File
Fonds
49
Series
3
File
74
Material Format
architectural drawing
Date
1937
Physical Description
14 architectural drawings : pencil, some hand col., pencil crayon on tracing paper ; 45 cm length or smaller and 8 cm diam.
Admin History/Bio
William F. Bebell was the manager of the British-American Coal and Coke Company which was located at 143 St. Leonards Avenue.
Scope and Content
File consists of architectural drawings of a two storey building at the corner of Avenue Road and Bernard Avenue for Mr. William F. Bebell. Among the drawings are floor plans of several different layouts for the building, containing various arrangements of apartments, offices and stores. Detailing, sections, and elevation drawings are also included.
Related Material
See File 49-3-79 for stores and apartments for Mr. Bebell at 2014-2016 Yonge Street.
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Commercial building plans and drawings series
Level
File
ID
Fonds 49; Series 3; File 60
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Commercial building plans and drawings series
Level
File
Fonds
49
Series
3
File
60
Material Format
architectural drawing
Date
1920
Physical Description
7 architectural drawings : pencil on tracing paper ; 58 cm length or smaller and 5 cm diam.
Scope and Content
File consists of floor plans, sections and elevation drawings of proposed additions and alterations to a single storey building on Simcoe Street for Mr. H. Goldstein.
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Reference materials series
Level
File
ID
Fonds 49; Series 5; File 3
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Reference materials series
Level
File
Fonds
49
Series
5
File
3
Material Format
textual record
Date
1913-1931
Physical Description
1 folder of textual records
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Commercial building plans and drawings series
Level
File
ID
Fonds 49; Series 3; File 33
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Commercial building plans and drawings series
Level
File
Fonds
49
Series
3
File
33
Material Format
architectural drawing
Date
1936
Physical Description
1 architectural drawing : pencil on tracing paper ; 60 cm length and 4 cm diam.
Scope and Content
File consists of floor plans, sections and elevations of a laundry building for Mr. Peter Kin at 71 Queen St. West.
Places
Queen Street West (Toronto, Ont.)
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Commercial building plans and drawings series
Level
File
ID
Fonds 49; Series 3; File 43
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Commercial building plans and drawings series
Level
File
Fonds
49
Series
3
File
43
Material Format
architectural drawing
Date
1924
Physical Description
14 architectural drawings : 3 blueprints, 11 pencil, some hand col., pencil crayon, 8 on tracing paper ; 58 cm length or smaller and 6 cm diam.
Admin History/Bio
Mr. Mooney Mirochnick was a Jewish druggist who owned several drugstores in Toronto at various times. Stores were located at 472 College Street, 267 Queen Street West, 162 Palmerston Avenue and 50 Arthur Street. Mr. Mirochnick died in November 1945.
Scope and Content
File consists of architectural drawings of additions and alterations to a two storey building containing stores and apartments for Mr. Mooney Mirochnick. Floor plans, a lot plan, a section and elevation drawings of the building are included.
Notes
811 Dundas Street West was an alternate address for this building.
Related Material
See File 49-3-44 for the architectural drawings of additions and alterations to the store located at 50 Arthur Street,
See File 49-3-45 for drawings of the garage of the Arthur Street building.
Places
Palmerston Avenue (Toronto, Ont.)
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Commercial building plans and drawings series
Level
File
ID
Fonds 49; Series 3; File 44
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Commercial building plans and drawings series
Level
File
Fonds
49
Series
3
File
44
Material Format
architectural drawing
Date
1917
Physical Description
11 architectural drawings : 4 ink on linen weave, 7 pencil on tracing paper ; 64 cm length or smaller and 7 cm diam.
Admin History/Bio
Mr. Mooney Mirochnick was a Jewish druggist who owned several drugstores in Toronto at various times. Stores were located at 472 College Street, 267 Queen Street West, 162 Palmerston Avenue and 50 Arthur Street. Mr. Mirochnick died in November 1945.
Scope and Content
File consists of architectural drawings for alterations and additions to a three storey building located at 50 Arthur Street for Mr. Mooney Mirochnick. The first storey included two stores, one of which was Mr. Mirochnick's drugstore. The second and third stories each contained one large residential suite. Floor plans and elevation drawings are included.
Related Material
See File 49-3-43 for the architectural drawings of additions and alterations to the store located at 162 Palmerston Avenue.
See File 49-3-45 for drawings of the garage of the Arthur Street building.
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Commercial building plans and drawings series
Level
File
ID
Fonds 49; Series 3; File 66
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Commercial building plans and drawings series
Level
File
Fonds
49
Series
3
File
66
Material Format
architectural drawing
Date
1930
Physical Description
2 architectural drawings : pencil on tracing paper, 1 hand col., pencil crayon ; 68 cm length or smaller and 4 cm diam.
Scope and Content
File consists of architectural drawings of alterations to three attached buildings at 76-80 Spadina Avenue for Mr. D. L. Smith. Each building was two stories and housed a store on the ground floor. Elevations, sections, floor plans and a foundation plan are included.
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Commercial building plans and drawings series
Level
File
ID
Fonds 49; Series 3; File 71
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Commercial building plans and drawings series
Level
File
Fonds
49
Series
3
File
71
Material Format
architectural drawing
Date
1940
Physical Description
1 architectural drawing : pencil on tracing paper ; 73 cm length and 5 cm diam.
Admin History/Bio
Link Brass and Copper Co. Ltd. was owned by Mr. K. Link.
Scope and Content
File consists of architectural drawings of a foundry and forge for Mr. K. Link. A foundation plan, floor plan and elevation drawings are included.
Related Material
See File 40-3-70, for architectural plans of main building at 108 River Street.
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Commercial building plans and drawings series
Level
File
ID
Fonds 49; Series 3; File 45
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Commercial building plans and drawings series
Level
File
Fonds
49
Series
3
File
45
Material Format
architectural drawing
Date
[ca.1920]
Physical Description
3 architectural drawings : ink on linen weave ; 59 cm length or smaller and 5 cm diam.
Admin History/Bio
Mr. Mooney Mirochnick was a Jewish druggist who owned several drugstores in Toronto at various times. Stores were located at 472 College Street, 267 Queen Street West, 162 Palmerston Avenue and 50 Arthur Street. Mr. Mirochnick died in November 1945.
Scope and Content
File consists of architectural drawings of a new garage for Mr. Mirochnick at 50 Arthur street. Drawings were completed by Benjamin Brown and Robert McConnell, whom at the time were partners. Floor plans, a section, elevation drawings and a foundation plan are included.
Related Material
See File 49-3-43 for the architectural drawings of additions and alterations to the store located at 162 Palmerston Avenue.
See File 49-3-44 for drawings of additions and alterations to the Arthur Street building.
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Residential building plans and drawings series
Level
Series
ID
Fonds 49; Series 2
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Residential building plans and drawings series
Level
Series
Fonds
49
Series
2
Material Format
architectural drawing
Date
1919-[1935]
Physical Description
327 architectural and technical drawings
Scope and Content
Series consists of Benjamin Brown’s architectural drawings of personal residences that were either designed or renovated for real estate developers, landlords or the occupants themselves. The majority of the buildings were designed for a Jewish clientele, many of whom were prominent citizens, including Louis Gelber and Mendel Granatstein. Brown also created designs for his own personal residence on Castle Frank Crescent, however the home was never completed. Most of the houses he designed or renovated were located in the Annex, Forest Hill, Casa Loma or Hillcrest neighborhoods. Many were designed with elements of Georgian, Craftman, Colonial Revival and/or Tudor architectural styles. They ranged from three storey mansions to small duplexes and single story homes. The vast majority of his commissions were standard three or four bedroom two storey homes.
The majority of these drawings are on tracing or drafting paper, several of which are in colour and the remainder are either blueprints or drawn on cardboard. Plans, sketches, elevations, sections, detailing and technical drawings of the residences are included.
Subjects
Dwellings
Physical Condition
Several drawings are in poor condition. See file level descriptions for further details.
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Commercial building plans and drawings series
Level
Series
ID
Fonds 49; Series 3
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Commercial building plans and drawings series
Level
Series
Fonds
49
Series
3
Material Format
architectural drawing
graphic material
textual record
Date
1919-1949
Physical Description
ca. 1000 architectural and technical drawings
2 photographs : b&w ; 38 x 30 cm or smaller
1 cm of textual records
Scope and Content
Series consists of architectural and technical drawings of commercial buildings that Benjamin Brown either designed or altered. Most of Brown’s clients were Jewish owned businesses, several of which were run by prominent members of the community. These businesses included Imperial Optical, Gelber Brothers Woolens, the City Dye Works, Schipper Brothers Furs, and the Empire Clothing Company.
Architectural plans of apartments, warehouses, theatres, service stations, banks, restaurants, stores, office towers, a bakery and a laundry are included. Several of these buildings are now designated as Toronto heritage buildings. These include the Balfour Building, the Hermant Building (eastern tower), the Hermant Annex, the Commodore Building and the Standard Theatre. Also included are plans of the headquarters of Famous Players Canada, which later became a subsidiary of Cineplex Odeon.
The majority of the drawings are either blueprints or pencil drawings on tracing or drafting paper, several of which are also in colour. Some are on linen weave or cardboard. Plans, elevations, sections, sketches, detailing, photographs of building exteriors, building specifications, and technical drawings of the buildings are included.
Physical Condition
Several drawings are in poor condition. See file level descriptions for further details.
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Commercial building plans and drawings series
Level
File
ID
Fonds 49; Series 3; File 35
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Commercial building plans and drawings series
Level
File
Fonds
49
Series
3
File
35
Material Format
architectural drawing
Date
1924
Physical Description
7 architectural drawings : blueprints ; 41 cm length or smaller and 8 cm diam.
Scope and Content
File consists of architectural drawings of an apartment building located on Beverley St. for Mr. Benjamin Brown (in trust). Floor plans, sections and elevation drawings are included.
Places
Beverley Street (Toronto, Ont.)
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Commercial building plans and drawings series
Level
File
ID
Fonds 49; Series 3; File 69
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Commercial building plans and drawings series
Level
File
Fonds
49
Series
3
File
69
Material Format
architectural drawing
Date
1929
Physical Description
8 architectural and technical drawings : blueprints ; 76 cm length or smaller and 8 cm diam.
Admin History/Bio
The Empire Clothing Company, co-owned by Mr. William Leibel and Mr. A. M. Schiffer, manufactured men's clothing and sold it wholesale. Leibel and Schiffer were also close neighbors, living only a few houses apart. The headquarters of Empire Clothing was located at 197/199 Spadina Avenue.
Scope and Content
File consists of architectural and technical drawings of a building for the Empire Clothing Company at the corner of Spadina Avenue and Adelaide Street. The building is likely the Balfour Building, which was commissioned by the Empire Clothing Co., Sam Lichtman of Blue Bird Dress, and the Shiffer-Hillman Co. Many of the plans are of a structural nature. Floor plans, footing plans, schedules for placing support columns and detailing are included.
Related Material
See File 49-3-94 for plans of additions and alterations to the office headquarters of the Empire Clothing Company at 197/199 Spadina Avenue.
See File 49-2-4 for plans of private garage for Mr. A. M. Schiffer.
See File 49-2-6 for plans of alterations to home of Mr. William Leibel. Elevations and floor plans of an unknown building are on the verso of two of the blueprints.
See File 49-3-105 for plans of the Balfour Building.
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Jewish community building plans and drawings series
Level
Series
ID
Fonds 49; Series 1
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Jewish community building plans and drawings series
Level
Series
Fonds
49
Series
1
Material Format
architectural drawing
Date
[1915]-1940
Physical Description
174 architectural drawings
Scope and Content
Series consists of Benjamin Brown’s architectural plans and drawings of significant buildings designed or renovated for Toronto‘s Jewish community, including proposals that were never implemented. Contained within are renovation plans of the Beach Hebrew Institute synagogue, an ark design for the McCaul Street Synagogue, and the complete designs of the Henry Street Synagogue. The last of these projects is of particular significance, because it was the first synagogue in Toronto designed by a Jewish architect and was one of Brown‘s largest commissions. Drawings of the Primrose Club (a Jewish men’s club) and the Brunswick Talmud Torah Day School, as well as plans of Camp Yungvelt (a Jewish summer camp) are also included. Additionally, several preliminary sketches of synagogue facades are contained within.
The majority of these drawings are on tracing or drafting paper, several of which are in colour, and the remainder are either blueprints or drawn on cardboard. Floor plans, elevations, sections, foundation plans and sketches of building exterior facades and interiors are included. Additionally, there are drawings of windows, doors and synagogue arks.
Physical Condition
Several drawings and plans are in poor condition. See file level descriptions for further details.
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Commercial building plans and drawings series
Level
File
ID
Fonds 49; Series 3; File 97
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Commercial building plans and drawings series
Level
File
Fonds
49
Series
3
File
97
Material Format
architectural drawing
Date
[between 1929 and 1930]
Physical Description
ca.100 architectural and technical drawings : blueprints, pencil on linen weave, some hand col. pencil crayon ; 95 cm or smaller
Admin History/Bio
The Hermant Building, located at 21 Dundas Square, is a designated heritage building that is actually composed of two connected office buildings and an annex. The nine storey western building was designed by architects Bond and Smith in 1913. The six storey Hermant Annex and fourteen storey eastern tower were designed by Benjamin Brown in 1920 and 1930 respectively. The building is named after Percy Hermant and served as the headquarters of his company, Imperial Optical, which for a time was the largest prescription lens business in the British Commonwealth. The buildings were designated as heritage buildings in 1990. The Hermant Building was initially built on Wilton Square - which was later renamed Dundas Square. Benjamin Brown's office was also located in the Hermant building during the 1940s.
Scope and Content
File consists of architectural and technical drawings of the eastern tower of the Hermant Building. Floor plans, cable plans, sections, elevations, detailing, sketches and technical drawings of structural elements of the building are included.
Physical Condition
Some drawings are fragile and torn.
Related Material
See File 49-3-63 for the architectural plans of alterations to the ground floor of the Hermant Building.
See File 49-3-106 for the architectural drawings of the Hermant Annex.
See File 49-3-37 for the architectural plans of a proposed storage building for Mr. Percy Hermant at 179 Ontario Street and for a biography of Mr. Hermant.
See File 49-3-58 for the architectural plans of a factory for Imperial Optical Co. at 270 Ontario Street and for an administrative history of Imperial Optical.
See File 49-3-100 for architectural drawings of Montgomery's Tavern, located on the ground floor of the Hermant Building.
See File 49-3-93 for the architectural drawings of a factory for Imperial Optical at the S.W. corner of Dundas and Ontario Streets.
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Commercial building plans and drawings series
Level
File
ID
Fonds 49; Series 3; File 40
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Commercial building plans and drawings series
Level
File
Fonds
49
Series
3
File
40
Material Format
architectural drawing
Date
[ca. 1930]
Physical Description
2 architectural drawings : 1 pencil and hand col. pencil crayon on verso of blueprint, 1 pencil on tracing paper ; 63 cm length or smaller and 5 cm diam.
Scope and Content
File consists of architectural drawings of alterations to The Spadina Building for Mr. H. Greisman. Floor plans and an elevation drawing are included.
Notes
One drawing is located on the verso of a discarded blueprint of a building for Power Investments Ltd. on 55 Charles St. West.
Places
Charles Street West (Toronto, Ont.)
Spadina Avenue (Toronto, Ont.)
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Commercial building plans and drawings series
Level
File
ID
Fonds 49; Series 3; File 63
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Commercial building plans and drawings series
Level
File
Fonds
49
Series
3
File
63
Material Format
architectural drawing
Date
1936
Physical Description
9 architectural and technical drawings : 2 blueprints, 6 pencil on tracing paper, 1 on verso of blueprint ; 51 cm length and 7 cm diam.
Admin History/Bio
The Hermant Building, located at 21 Dundas Square is a designated heritage building that is actually composed of two connected office buildings and an annex. The 9 storey western building was designed by architects Bond and Smith in 1913. The 6 storey Hermant Annex and 14 storey eastern tower were designed by Benjamin Brown in 1920 and 1930 respectively. The building is named after Percy Hermant and served as the headquarters of his company, Imperial Optical, which for a time was the largest prescription lens business in the British Commonwealth. The buildings were designated as heritage buildings in 1990.
Scope and Content
File consists of architectural drawings of an alteration to the ground floor of the Hermant Building at 21 Dundas Square. Elevations, floor plans, a block plan and technical drawings of structural elements of the building are included.
Notes
Benjamin Brown's office was located in the Hermant Building in the 1940s; at the time he created these architectural plans his office was located on Bay Street.
Related Material
See File 49-3-97 for the architectural drawings of the Hermant Building.
See File 49-3-106 for the architectural drawings of the Hermant Annex.
See File 49-3-100 for architectural drawings of Montgomery's Tavern, located on the ground floor of the Hermant Building.
See File 49-3-37 for the architectural plans of a proposed storage building located at 179 Ontario Street and a biography of Percy Hermant.
See File 49-3-58 for the architectural drawings of a factory for Imperial Optical at 270 Ontario Street.
See File 49-3-93 for the architectural drawings of a factory for Imperial Optical at the S.W. corner of Dundas and Ontario Streets.
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Jewish community building plans and drawings series
Level
File
ID
Fonds 49; Series 1; File 1
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Jewish community building plans and drawings series
Level
File
Fonds
49
Series
1
File
1
Material Format
architectural drawing
Date
1940
Physical Description
12 architectural drawings : pencil on tracing paper ; 48 cm length or smaller and 7 cm diam.
Admin History/Bio
Founded in the 1920s, Camp Yungvelt was originally situated on Lake Wilcox. Two years later it moved to Pickering, where it operated until it closed in the 1950s. It was established by the Workmen's Circle, as a Yiddish summer camp for Jewish children. Camp Yungvelt was known for accepting the children of poor immigrants for a small fraction of the regular fee.
Scope and Content
File consists of architectural drawings of several new buildings that were erected at Camp Yungvelt. Floor plans, a foundation plan, and several elevation drawings are included.
Subjects
Camps
Repro Restriction
Copyright is held by the Ontario Jewish Archives. Please contact the archives to obtain permission prior to use.
Places
Pickering (Ont.)
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Commercial building plans and drawings series
Level
File
ID
Fonds 49; Series 3; File 105
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Commercial building plans and drawings series
Level
File
Fonds
49
Series
3
File
105
Material Format
architectural drawing
graphic material
Date
1929-1930
Physical Description
41 architectural and technical drawings : some pencil, some blueprints ; 81 cm length or smaller and 9 cm diam.
1 photograph : b&w ; 38 x 30 cm
Admin History/Bio
The Balfour Building is a Toronto landmark and designated heritage building that is located at 119 Spadina Avenue. It was designed by Benjamin Brown and was one of his most important commissions. Built in 1930, the building is twelve storeys high and crowned by a two storey tower. It is considered one of the finest examples of Art Deco architecture in Toronto. Initially, many Jewish garment businesses were located in the building. It currently houses offices for several graphic design and advertising firms, shops and a post office. The Balfour Building was declared a heritage building by order of City Council in July of 1989.
Scope and Content
File consists of architectural and technical drawings of the Balfour Building. Floor plans, a roof plan, detailing, sections, elevations, electrical plans and drawings of the entrance are included. Also included is a photograph of the exterior in the early 1930s.
Notes
Photograph is mounted on cardboard and encased in Melinex.
Due to the fragility of this material, the description and extent are partially based on Steven Speisman's item level descriptions.
Repro Restriction
Copyright is held by the Ontario Jewish Archives. Please contact the archives to obtain permission prior to use.
Related Material
See photo 3308 for a copy print of the Balour building photograph in this file.
See File 49-3-34 for alterations to Lazar's restaurant in the Balfour Annex at 125 Spadina and File 49-3-32 for alterations to Balfour Annex stores for Messrs. Shiffer, Hillman and Lichtman.
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Reference materials series
Level
File
ID
Fonds 49; Series 5; File 12
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Reference materials series
Level
File
Fonds
49
Series
5
File
12
Material Format
architectural drawing
Date
1932
Physical Description
8 architectural drawings : blueprints ; 55 cm length or smaller and 5 cm diam.
Scope and Content
File consists of floor plans and an elevation.
Notes
Building was designed by Kaplan and Sprachman.
Related Material
See File 49-3-85 for additions and alterations to this building.
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Residential building plans and drawings series
Level
File
ID
Fonds 49; Series 2; File 15
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Residential building plans and drawings series
Level
File
Fonds
49
Series
2
File
15
Material Format
architectural drawing
Date
[ca.1930]
Physical Description
3 architectural drawings : 2 pencil on tracing paper , 1 pencil and hand col., pencil crayon and watercolour, on verso of blueprint ; 66 cm length or smaller and 4 cm diam.
Admin History/Bio
Henry Greisman was a real estate developer and the owner of the King Suspender and Neckwear Company at 240 Richmond Street West. He lived at 104 Admiral Road.
Scope and Content
File consists of architectural drawings of three houses for Mr. H. Greisman, two of which were on Van Horne Street. The first house is two storeys with three bedrooms and the second and third houses are two storey duplexes containing two, three bedroom residences. Floor plans and elevations are included.
Notes
Formerly listed as Commission XXI.
Related Material
See File 49-3-40 for architectural drawings of The Spadina Building at 129 Spadina Avenue for Mr. H. Greisman.
Places
Van Horne Street (Toronto, Ont.)
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Jewish community building plans and drawings series
Level
File
ID
Fonds 49; Series 1; File 2
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Jewish community building plans and drawings series
Level
File
Fonds
49
Series
1
File
2
Material Format
architectural drawing
Date
1919-1922
Physical Description
136 architectural drawings : pencil, some hand col., watercolour, on linen weave and tracing paper ; 100 x 90 cm or smaller
Admin History/Bio
The Henry Street Beth Jacob Synagogue was founded by Toronto’s Polish-Jewish Community, as the successor of an older, smaller synagogue on Elm Street. It was the first synagogue in Toronto that was designed by a Jewish architect, Benjamin Brown. Located at 23 and 23 ½ Henry Street, the synagogue was dedicated in 1922, at a cost of $156,000, and could accommodate up to eight hundred worshippers. It was built in Romanesque style and was notable for its stained glass windows and retractable roof that was used on Sukkoth. It also contained a vaulted ceiling capped by a large dome and four smaller ones. The building was eventually sold and converted into a church. It is the current site of the Holy Trinity Russian Orthodox Church.
Scope and Content
File consists of architectural drawings of Beth Jacob Synagogue. Contained within are basement, floor, stairwell and roof plans, load plans, sections, and elevation drawings. Also included are detailing of windows, the Ark, entrances and other structures and objects.
Notes
Most of the drawings are stored in four rolls, the remainder are encased in five sheets of Melinex. Due to the fragility of these drawings, the medium, extent and sizes of them are based on the descriptions compiled by Steve Speisman. It is recommended that a conservator examine these drawings.
Name Access
Beth Jacob Synagogue (Toronto, Ont.)
Subjects
Synagogues
Repro Restriction
Copyright is held by the Ontario Jewish Archives. Please contact the archives to obtain permission prior to use.
Physical Condition
Some drawings are frayed and torn.
Places
Henry Street (Toronto, Ont.)
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Commercial building plans and drawings series
Level
File
ID
Fonds 49; Series 3; File 2
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Commercial building plans and drawings series
Level
File
Fonds
49
Series
3
File
2
Material Format
architectural drawing
Date
[ca.1934]
Physical Description
5 architectural drawings : 1 blueprint, 4 pencil, 1 on tracing paper ; 48 cm length or smaller and 6 cm diam.
Admin History/Bio
Established in 1898, National Trust was a financial institution that managed the assets of trust funds and estates. It was headquartered at 20 King St. E., and merged with Scotiabank in 1997.
Scope and Content
File consists of floor plans, sections and elevation drawings of a two storey building for National Trust at 28 Atlantic Avenue.
Places
Atlantic Avenue (Toronto, Ont.)
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Commercial building plans and drawings series
Level
File
ID
Fonds 49; Series 3; File 58
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Commercial building plans and drawings series
Level
File
Fonds
49
Series
3
File
58
Material Format
architectural drawing
Date
1939
Physical Description
5 architectural and technical drawings : pencil on tracing paper ; 51 cm length or smaller and 6 cm diam.
Admin History/Bio
Imperial Optical was founded in 1900 by Mr. Percy Hermant and was the first prescription lens business in the Maritimes. Percy headed the company until his death in 1959, and under his leadership the company eventually grew to be the largest company of its kind in the British Commonwealth. The head office was located in the Hermant Building (named for Percy) at 21 Dundas Square. After Percy's death, the company passed into the hands of his son Sydney, who sold majority control to the Caribbean based Harcourt Carter Optical in 1965. By 1991, Harcourt Carter Optical had assumed total control of Imperial Optical.
Scope and Content
File consists of floor plans, elevations, sections and a roof plan of a two storey building for Imperial Optical at 270 Ontario Street. Building contained a storage facility, a garage, janitor's quarters and an employees' restaurant.
Notes
Formerly listed as Commission IX.
Related Material
See File 49-3-106 for the architectural drawings of the Hermant Annex.
See File 49-3-37 for the architectural plans of a proposed storage building for Mr. Percy Hermant at 179 Ontario Street, and for a biography of Mr. Hermant.
See File 49-3-63 for the architectural plans of alterations to the ground floor of the Hermant Building.
See File 49-3-97 for the architectural drawings of the Hermant Building.
See File 49-3-100 for architectural drawings of Montgomery's Tavern, located on the ground floor of the Hermant Building.
See File 49-3-93 for the architectural drawings of a factory for Imperial Optical at the S.W. corner of Dundas and Ontario Streets.
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Commercial building plans and drawings series
Level
File
ID
Fonds 49; Series 3; File 91
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Commercial building plans and drawings series
Level
File
Fonds
49
Series
3
File
91
Material Format
architectural drawing
Date
1923-1924
Physical Description
65 architectural and technical drawings : 7 blueprints, 58 pencil, some hand col., pencil crayon and watercolour, some on tracing paper ; 86 cm length or smaller
Admin History/Bio
The Gelber Brothers, Louis and Moses, were born in what is now Austria in the late nineteenth century. Together they founded the Imperial Clothing Company, which later became Gelber Brothers Woollens. Their head office was located in the Gelber Building at 217-225 Richmond Street West. Although selling woollens was their main business, the brothers had other investments, including ownership of a service station at Simcoe and Richmond and a public garage at 287 Spadina Avenue. After the brothers died, the family sold the woollens business and invested in real estate.
Scope and Content
File consists of architectural and technical drawings of a large seven storey building at 205 Richmond Street West, commissioned for the Gelber Brothers. It does not appear that the Gelber Brothers ever used the building for their own operations, but rather, leased it out to other garment manufacturers. Elevations, sections, a roof plan, floor plans, a block plan and detailing of the entrance are included. Also included are technical drawings of structural elements of the building as well as schedules for the construction of the building.
Notes
Due to the fragility of these drawings, the description is partially based on the item level descriptions compiled by Steve Speisman. Drawings are located in two separate rolls.
This building was previously erroneously identified as the Gelber Building at 217-225 Richmond Street West.
Physical Condition
Some drawings are fragile and torn.
Related Material
See File 49-3-90 for the architectural drawings of a woollens warehouse for the Gelber Brothers at 355-359 Adelaide Street West.
See File 49-2-7 for the architectural drawings of alterations and additions to the house of Mr. Louis Gelber as well as his biography.
See File 49-3-46 for architectural drawings and plans of a service station for the Gelber Brothers at the corner of Richmond and Simcoe streets.
See File 49-3-68 for architectural drawings of a public garage at 287 Spadina Avenue for the Gelber Brothers.
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Commercial building plans and drawings series
Level
File
ID
Fonds 49; Series 3; File 102
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Commercial building plans and drawings series
Level
File
Fonds
49
Series
3
File
102
Material Format
architectural drawing
Date
[ca. 1929]
Physical Description
11 architectural drawings : 1 blueprint, 10 pencil ; 64 cm length or smaller - 6 cm diam.
Admin History/Bio
Built in 1929, the Commodore Building is a large office building that once primarily housed businesses in the garment industry. It was designated a heritage building in 2005.
Scope and Content
File consists of architectural drawings of the Commodore Building, which is a ten storey building located at 317 Adelaide West. Floor plans of each floor and an elevation of the entrance are included.
Notes
USE CONDITION NOTE: Researchers wishing to access interior drawings must first be granted written permission by the property owner.
Access Restriction
Partially closed. Researchers must receive permission from the OJA director prior to accessing some of the records.
Repro Restriction
Copyright is held by the Ontario Jewish Archives. Please contact the archives to obtain permission prior to use.
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Reference materials series
Level
File
ID
Fonds 49; Series 5; File 11
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Reference materials series
Level
File
Fonds
49
Series
5
File
11
Material Format
architectural drawing
Date
1936
Physical Description
6 architectural drawings : blueprints ; 50 cm length or smaller and 5 cm diam.
Scope and Content
File consists of elevations, detailing, a foundation plan and floor plans.
Notes
Building was designed by Herbert G. Duerr.
Places
Kingston Road (Toronto, Ont.)
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Commercial building plans and drawings series
Level
File
ID
Fonds 49; Series 3; File 12
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Commercial building plans and drawings series
Level
File
Fonds
49
Series
3
File
12
Material Format
architectural drawing
Date
1934
Physical Description
1 architectural drawing : pencil and hand col. pencil crayon on tracing paper ; 44 cm length and 4 cm diam.
Scope and Content
File consists of architectural drawings of a two storey building that was converted into a hotel, situated at 628-632 Bloor St. West. Floor plans and an elevation drawing are included.
Notes
Formerly listed as Commission XXVI.
Physical Condition
Material is fragile.
Places
Bloor Street West (Toronto, Ont.)
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Commercial building plans and drawings series
Level
File
ID
Fonds 49; Series 3; File 13
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Commercial building plans and drawings series
Level
File
Fonds
49
Series
3
File
13
Material Format
architectural drawing
Date
[ca.1930]
Physical Description
9 architectural drawings : 1 blueprint, 7 pencil on tracing paper, 3 hand col. pastel, 1 on verso of blueprint ; 47 cm length or smaller and 7 cm diam.
Admin History/Bio
Owned by Mr. A. Levy, Levy Auto Wreckers was one of Canada's largest auto wreckers during the 1930s. The head office was located at 735/737 Queen Street West and it had a branch office at 464 Queen Street East.
Scope and Content
File consists of architectural drawings of the head office of Levy Auto Wreckers. Floor plans, elevations, and sketches are included.
Physical Condition
Drawings are fragile, one is torn in half.
Related Material
See File 49-3-27 for plans of a branch office at 464 Queen Street East.
See File 49-5-10 for plans of stores for Mr. A. Levy on St. Clair Avenue that were designed by E. Telfer Arnoldi.
Places
Queen Street West (Toronto, Ont.)
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Commercial building plans and drawings series
Level
File
ID
Fonds 49; Series 3; File 88
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Commercial building plans and drawings series
Level
File
Fonds
49
Series
3
File
88
Material Format
architectural drawing
Date
1921-1924
Physical Description
44 architectural drawings : 4 blueprints, 40 pencil on tracing paper ; 81 cm length or smaller and 7 cm diam.
Admin History/Bio
Dr. Max Kates was a Jewish dentist, his office was located at 218 1/2 Queen Street West. He was married to Lillian Kates, who was the founder of Camp Arowhon. They had two children, Eugene and Shyrle.
Scope and Content
File consists of architectural drawings of a two storey building containing stores for Dr. Max Kates at Dundas and Elizabeth Streets. Sections, elevations, detailing, floor plans, a block plan and a roof plan are included. An early perspective drawing shows the building designed as three-storeys instead of the built two-storey structure.
Notes
Due to the fragility of these drawings, the description is partially based on the item level descriptions created by Steve Speisman.
Access Restriction
Closed. Records are closed for conservation reasons.
Repro Restriction
Copyright is held by the Ontario Jewish Archives. Please contact the archives to obtain permission prior to use.
Physical Condition
Material is fragile.
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Commercial building plans and drawings series
Level
File
ID
Fonds 49; Series 3; File 15
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Commercial building plans and drawings series
Level
File
Fonds
49
Series
3
File
15
Material Format
architectural drawing
Date
1935-1936
Physical Description
4 architectural drawings : pencil on tracing paper ; 46 cm length or smaller and 3 cm diam.
Admin History/Bio
Mr. Morris Spring was a Jewish real-estate agent and developer. In 1932-33, Mr. Spring purchased and developed several properties in the Hillcrest and Casa Loma areas, as well as the Bloor-Landsdowne area.
Scope and Content
File consists of architectural drawings of three connected buildings containing stores and dwellings commissioned by Mr. Morris Spring. They were located at 1248-1252 Bloor St. West. The buildings were all two storeys high and had shops on the ground floor and dwellings on the second floor. Floor plans, sections and elevation drawings are included.
Notes
Originally was separated into two projects - Commission no.XXII and XXXII - according to Speisman's finding aid.
Physical Condition
Material is fragile.
Related Material
See File 49-2-3 for the plans of a residence for Mr. Spring at 43 Hillcrest Drive.
See File 49-2-10 for the plans of a residence for Mr. Spring at 19 Austin Crescent.
Places
Bloor Street West (Toronto, Ont.)
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Residential building plans and drawings series
Level
File
ID
Fonds 49; Series 2; File 19
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Residential building plans and drawings series
Level
File
Fonds
49
Series
2
File
19
Material Format
architectural drawing
Date
[ca.1924]
Physical Description
1 architectural drawing : pencil and hand col. watercolour on cardboard ; 39 x 46 cm
Admin History/Bio
Mrs. Harry Farber lived at 45 Sullivan Street.
Scope and Content
File contains a watercolour drawing of a proposed residence for Mrs. Harry Farber.
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Commercial building plans and drawings series
Level
File
ID
Fonds 49; Series 3; File 10
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Commercial building plans and drawings series
Level
File
Fonds
49
Series
3
File
10
Material Format
architectural drawing
Date
1936-1937
Physical Description
14 architectural drawings : pencil on tracing paper, 3 hand col., pencil crayon ; 62 cm length or smaller and 10 cm diam.
Scope and Content
File consists of architectural drawings of a six storey apartment building at 10 Moir Ave. for W. J. Lovegrove Limited. Floor plans, elevation views, a section and a block plan are included.
Physical Condition
One drawing is torn.
Places
Moir Avenue (Toronto, Ont.)
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Commercial building plans and drawings series
Level
File
ID
Fonds 49; Series 3; File 18
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Commercial building plans and drawings series
Level
File
Fonds
49
Series
3
File
18
Material Format
architectural drawing
Date
1948
Physical Description
4 architectural drawings : 3 pencil on tracing paper, 1 pen ; 55 cm length or smaller and 4 cm diam.
Admin History/Bio
Union Bakery was a large Jewish bakery owned by Abraham Stancer. The bakery was previously known as Stancer Brothers.
Scope and Content
File consists of proposed alterations to a two story building for Union Bakery Co. at 779 Dundas St. West. Several floor plans and sections are included.
Related Material
See Photo #1511 for a photo of Abraham Stancer.
Places
Dundas Street West (Toronto, Ont.)
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Commercial building plans and drawings series
Level
File
ID
Fonds 49; Series 3; File 32
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Commercial building plans and drawings series
Level
File
Fonds
49
Series
3
File
32
Material Format
architectural drawing
Date
1934
Physical Description
6 architectural drawings : 2 blueprints, 4 pencil on tracing paper, 1 hand col. pencil crayon ; 73 cm length or smaller and 6 cm diam.
Admin History/Bio
The Balfour Building is a Toronto landmark and designated heritage building that is located at 119 Spadina Avenue. It was designed by Benjamin Brown and was one of his most important commissions. Built in 1930, the building is twelve storeys high and is crowned by a two storey tower. It is considered one of the finest examples of Art Deco architecture in Toronto. The Balfour Building was declared a heritage building by order of City Council in July of 1989. It currently houses offices for several graphic design and advertising firms, shops and a post office.
Scope and Content
File consists of architectural drawings of additions and alterations to two stores located in a single storey Annex to the Balfour Building, at 125 Spadina Avenue. One of the stores was Shiffer-Hillman Men's Clothing Manufacturing, owned by Elsig Shiffer and Benjamin Hillman. The other store was the Blue Bird Dress Company, owned by Mr. Sam Lichtman. Floor plans, elevations, a block plan, a foundation plan, and a sketch of the storefront are also included.
Physical Condition
Material is slightly torn and fragile.
Related Material
See File 49-3-34 for alterations to Lazar's restaurant in the Balfour Annex at 125 Spadina.
See File 49-3-105 for architectural drawings of the Balfour Building itself.
Places
Spadina Avenue (Toronto, Ont.)
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Commercial building plans and drawings series
Level
File
ID
Fonds 49; Series 3; File 64
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Commercial building plans and drawings series
Level
File
Fonds
49
Series
3
File
64
Material Format
architectural drawing
Date
1935
Physical Description
6 architectural drawings : 3 blueprints, 2 pencil on tracing paper, 1 pencil and hand col. pencil crayon on verso of blueprint ; 56 cm length or smaller and 5 cm diam.
Scope and Content
File consists of architectural drawings of alterations to a two storey building located at 123-125 Yonge Street for Arcade Florists Limited, which was owned by George and Ben Yavner. Sections, elevation drawings and floor plans are included.
Notes
One drawing is located on the verso of a discarded blueprint.
Formerly listed as Commission XIII.
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Commercial building plans and drawings series
Level
File
ID
Fonds 49; Series 3; File 70
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Commercial building plans and drawings series
Level
File
Fonds
49
Series
3
File
70
Material Format
architectural drawing
Date
1940
Physical Description
3 architectural drawings : pencil on tracing paper ; 74 cm length or smaller and 5 cm diam.
Admin History/Bio
Link Brass and Copper Co. Ltd. was owned by Mr. K. Link.
Scope and Content
File consists of architectural drawings of a building for Link Brass and Copper Co. Ltd. at 108 River Street. Sections, elevation drawings and floor plans are included.
Related Material
See File 49-3-71 for architectural plans of a foundry and forge building for Mr. K. Link at the rear of this building.
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Commercial building plans and drawings series
Level
File
ID
Fonds 49; Series 3; File 80
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Commercial building plans and drawings series
Level
File
Fonds
49
Series
3
File
80
Material Format
architectural drawing
Date
[ca.1930]
Physical Description
4 architectural drawings : pencil on tracing paper ; 57 cm length or smaller and 8 cm diam.
Scope and Content
File consists of architectural drawings for an additional storey to a warehouse for Ace Properties. Floor plans, sections, detailing and elevation drawings are included.
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Commercial building plans and drawings series
Level
File
ID
Fonds 49; Series 3; File 81
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Commercial building plans and drawings series
Level
File
Fonds
49
Series
3
File
81
Material Format
architectural drawing
Date
[ca.1930]
Physical Description
4 architectural drawings : pencil on tracing paper ; 81 cm length or smaller and 6 cm diam.
Scope and Content
File consists of architectural drawings of additions to a two storey factory building at 98 Munro for the Silver Products Co. Ltd. Floor plans, sections, detailing, a roof plan and elevations are included.
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Residential building plans and drawings series
Level
File
ID
Fonds 49; Series 2; File 3
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Residential building plans and drawings series
Level
File
Fonds
49
Series
2
File
3
Material Format
architectural drawing
Date
[ca. 1933]
Physical Description
6 architectural drawings : 5 blueprints, 1 pencil on tracing paper ; 45 cm length or smaller and 5 cm diam.
Admin History/Bio
Mr. Morris Spring was a Jewish real-estate agent and developer. In 1932-33, Mr. Spring purchased and developed several properties in the Hillcrest and Casa Loma areas, as well as the Bloor-Landsdowne area.
Scope and Content
File consists of architectural drawings of a four bedroom, two storey home, and a garage for Mr. Morris Spring. The residence was located at 43 Hillcrest Drive. Floor plans, foundation plans and elevation drawings are included.
Notes
Numbers 31 and 106 in Speisman's finding aid have been merged into this project.
Related Material
See File 49-3-15 for the plans of stores and residences for Mr. Spring at 1248-1252 Bloor St. West.
See File 49-2-10 for the plans of a residence for Mr. Spring at 19 Austin Crescent.
Places
Hillcrest Drive (Toronto, Ont.)
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Residential building plans and drawings series
Level
File
ID
Fonds 49; Series 2; File 4
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Residential building plans and drawings series
Level
File
Fonds
49
Series
2
File
4
Material Format
architectural drawing
Date
[ca. 1928]
Physical Description
2 architectural drawings : pencil, 1 hand col., watercolour ; 51 cm length or smaller and 4 cm diam.
Admin History/Bio
Mr. Abraham M. Schiffer along with his partner, Mr. William Leibel, were the co-owners of Empire Clothing Co., and Cornell Tailored Clothing Ltd. Both businesses were located at 197/199 Spadina Avenue in the Empire Clothing Building, which was named after their company.
Scope and Content
File consists of architectural drawings of a private garage for Mr. Abraham M. Schiffer located at 82 Admiral Road. Sections, a floor plan and two front elevation drawings are included, one of which is in colour.
Physical Condition
Material is fragile.
Related Material
See File 49-3-94 for plans of additions and alterations to the office headquarters of the Empire Clothing Company at 197/199 Spadina Avenue.
See File 49-3-69 for plans of a building for Empire Clothing at Spadina Avenue and Adelaide Street.
See File 49-2-6 for plans of alterations to home of Mr. William Leibel.
Places
Admiral Road (Toronto, Ont.)
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Commercial building plans and drawings series
Level
File
ID
Fonds 49; Series 3; File 29
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Commercial building plans and drawings series
Level
File
Fonds
49
Series
3
File
29
Material Format
architectural drawing
Date
1926
Physical Description
4 architectural drawings : pencil ; 62 cm length or smaller and 4 cm diam.
Admin History/Bio
Mr. Sol Wilks was the owner of a stationary store and two commercial/residential buildings. One building was located at the corner of Robina and St. Clair and the other at 1034 St. Clair, where he also resided.
Scope and Content
File consists of architectural drawings for stores and an apartment building located on the N.W. corner of Robina and St. Clair for Mr. Sol Wilks. The building was three stories high and contained one, two bedroom suite and four, one bedroom suites. Floor plans and elevations are included.
Places
Robina Avenue (Toronto, Ont.)
Saint Clair Avenue West (Toronto, Ont.)
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Residential building plans and drawings series
Level
File
ID
Fonds 49; Series 2; File 7
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Residential building plans and drawings series
Level
File
Fonds
49
Series
2
File
7
Material Format
architectural drawing
Date
[ca. 1935]
Physical Description
11 architectural and technical drawings : 4 blueprints, 7 pencil, 1 hand col., watercolour, 6 on tracing paper, 1 on cardboard ; 51 x 64 cm or smaller
Admin History/Bio
Louis Gelber was born in what is now Austria on November 8, 1880. He immigrated to Canada in 1896, marrying Sarah Leah Morris in 1904. Around this time, he and his brother Moses co-founded the Imperial Clothing Company, which became Gelber Brothers Woollens. The head office was located at 217-225 Richmond St. W. from 1912 until the 1960s.
Mr. Gelber was very active in the Jewish Community and was a founder of the Hebrew Free School, Primrose Club and was president of Goel Tzedek. He died in December 1968 and was survived by his four children.
Scope and Content
File consists of architectural and technical drawings of the home of Mr. Louis Gelber at 133 Lowther Avenue. Included are floor plans, elevation drawings, a colour sketch of the interior and detailing of the living room ceiling, bookcases and mantel.
Notes
Due to the fragility of this material, the description is partially based on Steven Speisman's description.
Physical Condition
Material is fragile and badly torn.
Related Material
See File 49-3-68 for architectural drawings of a public garage at 287 Spadina Avenue for the Gelber Brothers.
See File 49-3-91 for architectural drawings of the New Textile Building for the Gelber Brothers at 205 Richmond Street West.
See File 49-3-90 for the architectural drawings of a woolens warehouse for the Gelber Brothers at 355-359 Adelaide Street West.
See File 49-3-46 for architectural drawings and plans of a service station for the Gelber Brothers at the corner of Richmond and Simcoe streets.
Places
Lowther Avenue (Toronto, Ont.)
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Commercial building plans and drawings series
Level
File
ID
Fonds 49; Series 3; File 57
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Commercial building plans and drawings series
Level
File
Fonds
49
Series
3
File
57
Material Format
architectural drawing
Date
1935
Physical Description
28 architectural and technical drawings : 6 blueprints, 20 pencil, some hand col. pencil crayon, 18 on tracing paper, 2 on verso of blueprints ; 57 cm length or smaller and 8 cm diam.
Scope and Content
File consists of architectural and technical drawings of a two storey building containing stores and apartments for Mr. Lorenzo Del Grande at the southeast corner of Eglinton and Elmsthorpe Streets. Floor plans, sections, elevations, lot plans, a drainage plan, structural plans of a door frame and detailing of the storefront are included.
Notes
Formerly listed as Commission II.
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Residential building plans and drawings series
Level
File
ID
Fonds 49; Series 2; File 27
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Residential building plans and drawings series
Level
File
Fonds
49
Series
2
File
27
Material Format
architectural drawing
Date
1922
Physical Description
3 architectural drawings : pencil and hand col. watercolour on cardboard backed paper ; 33 x 53 cm or smaller
Scope and Content
File consists of architectural drawings of a two storey house for Mr. M. Mendelsohn on Dunvegan Road. Elevation drawings and sketches of the stairs and main entrance are included.
Places
Dunvegan Road (Toronto, Ont.)
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Reference materials series
Level
File
ID
Fonds 49; Series 5; File 10
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Reference materials series
Level
File
Fonds
49
Series
5
File
10
Material Format
architectural drawing
Date
1932
Physical Description
2 architectural drawings : blueprints; 50 cm length or smaller and 4 cm diam.
Scope and Content
File consists of elevations and a floor plan.
Notes
Building was designed by E. Telfer Arnoldi.
Related Material
See File 49-3-27 for plans of the branch office, located at 464 Queen Street East.
See File 49-3-13 for plans of the head office, located at 735/737 Queen Street West.
Places
St. Clair Avenue (Toronto, Ont.)
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Commercial building plans and drawings series
Level
File
ID
Fonds 49; Series 3; File 94
Source
Archival Descriptions
Part Of
Benjamin Brown fonds
Commercial building plans and drawings series
Level
File
Fonds
49
Series
3
File
94
Material Format
architectural drawing
Date
1923-1926
Physical Description
66 architectural drawings : 16 blueprints, 50 pencil on tracing paper ; 79 cm length or smaller
Admin History/Bio
The Empire Clothing Company, co-owned by Mr. William Leibel and Mr. A. M. Schiffer, manufactured men's clothing and sold it wholesale. Leibel and Schiffer were also close neighbors, living only a few houses apart. The headquarters of Empire Clothing was located at 197/199 Spadina Avenue.
Scope and Content
File consists of architectural drawings for additions and alterations to the office headquarters of the Empire Clothing Company at 197/199 Spadina Avenue. Elevations, detailing, sections, floor plans and a roof plan are included. Also included are the drawings for the original factory, completed by Brown in 1923.
Notes
Due to the fragility of these drawings, the description and extent are partially based on Speisman's earlier item level descriptions. The drawings are contained in two rolls.
ACCESS RESTRICTION NOTE: Researchers wishing to access interior drawings must be granted written permission by the property owner.
Access Restriction
Partially closed. Researchers must receive permission from the OJA director prior to accessing some of the records.
Repro Restriction
Copyright is held by the Ontario Jewish Archives. Please contact the archives to obtain permission prior to use.
Physical Condition
Drawings are fragile and torn.
Related Material
See File 49-2-4 for plans of private garage for Mr. A. M. Schiffer.
See File 49-2-6 for plans of alterations to home of Mr. William Leibel.
See File 49-3-69 for plans of a building for Empire Clothing at Spadina Avenue and Adelaide Street.
Source
Archival Descriptions