One of ten historic sites operated by the City of Toronto, Spandina Museum examines how the 1920s and 30s transformed the city.  Visitors get a feel for these lively decades through exhibitions that include tabloid journalism and technology of the times.  Spandina was originally a home to four generations of the Austin family and used to reflect styles spanning from the 1860s to the 1930s. However, in 2010, the historic home museum underwent a major overhaul, with renovations carried out to incorporate a style reflective of the 20s and 30s only.

Visitors can experience this time period through furnishings, artifacts and décor. On display are original wallpaper, family artifacts and light fittings in 14 rooms and six common spaces. The kitchen area has been restored down to the tiniest details of a typical Torontonian 1930s home, including authentic food packaging.  Daily tours feature different themes, all covering the lives of the local population during these decades through the Austin family.   Some of the themes explored include the birth of the modern age (such as the invention of the radio), social welfare, scandal and morality, the changing role of women in society and education.

 Spandina is surrounded by natural landscape, including formal gardens, a stone pergola and six acres of restored 1905 gardens, with over 300 varieties of flowers and vegetables. 

Keep an eye out on the Spandina Museum’s events and exhibits schedule which changes every few months.