From the Archives
John Charlton House
The City of Vaughan’s archives house more than 600 collections dating from the early 1700s to the present day. Within these files are the stories of how Vaughan evolved from the traditional territories of the First Peoples of Turtle Island to the bustling city it is today.
Let’s look back at our history and share the stories of the people, places and moments that helped shape the city we know today. This month’s feature is on the John Charlton House.
Located in Thornhill, the John Charlton House (220 Charlton Ave.) was built around 1861. This red-brick home is a notable example of Classical Revival architecture, a style popular in Ontario during the mid-19th century. Its balanced design, symmetrical façade and simple decorative details reflect the architectural trends of the time and adapted for rural communities.
The home was built by John Charlton, an early settler who immigrated to Canada from Ireland in 1832 with his brother George. In 1846, John purchased 100 acres of land on Lot 2, Concession 2 from the Canada Company. The property is now Dufferin Street north of Steeles Avenue in Thornhill, where he began farming.
The Charlton family played an important role in Thornhill’s early development. Present in the community as early as the 1830s, they helped establish its agricultural foundation by purchasing and farming large tracts of land. Their efforts contributed to the community’s growth from a rural community into a developing village.
John remained on the property for the rest of his life, where he and his wife, Fanny Maxwell, raised 14 children in the home. After John’s death in 1873, Fanny retained ownership of the property until her passing in 1902. The home was then sold to new owners and again in 1945.
In 1985, Vaughan designated the John Charlton House under Part IV of the Ontario Heritage Act in recognition of its cultural and architectural significance, helping ensure it is protected for future generations.
Today, the John Charlton House stands as a reminder of Vaughan’s early settlement and the families who helped lay the foundation of our city.
VIEW VAUGHAN'S ARCHIVES ONLINE!
Looking for more information about the history of Vaughan? The City's Archival Collection is on digital display for all to explore! The following galleries are available in the City's online gallery on Flickr:
From Township to City: The Evolution of Vaughan
Historical Families of Vaughan
Historical Photography
Past Mayors of Vaughan
Prohibition in Vaughan
Recollections of Rural Vaughan
The Great Depression in Vaughan
The Mary Wood Collection
The Way We Were: Representations of Vaughan's Past
Vaughan’s Forgotten Heroes
Vaughan Lodge Fonds
Vaughan Working Environments
Vaughan Through the Ages: Medicine, Music and Sports and Recreation
and more!
A personal Flickr account is not required to access the City's online gallery, which contains only a small selection of the full archives collection. If you are looking for a particular image, original file, primary source record or more, please visit the Archival Database or contact the City by calling 905-832-2281 or emailing archives@vaughan.ca.
By managing and preserving both City and community records, the City’s Enterprise Information Management Services team ensures that Vaughan's rich and varied history will continue to be available for future generations. Learn more at vaughan.ca/archives.
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