1

At the time of incorporation in 1924, East York had a population of 19,859 and an area of 3,700 acres. Much of the area was still farmland. Young families purchased land and constructed their homes as funds and materials became available to them; many homes were built brick by brick.

2

Unpaved road in East York
1930
Todmorden, Ontario

3

Most of the residents of the township were heavily mortgaged young families, vulnerable to lay-offs. Even during the "booming twenties" East York's relief payments were high, ranging from $16, 497 in 1925 to $20,241 in 1929.

4

Laying sewer pipes
1920
Todmorden, Ontario

5

The Township of East York was unable to meet relief costs before the Great Depression began. The building boom and need to provide necessary services such as sewers, roads and schools, had put great pressure on the budget. In February 1935, approximately 45 per cent of the population of East York was on relief, creating an impossible financial burden for the community.

6

Many proposals for reducing the Township's expenditures were debated. Families were sent north as part of a "back to the land" movement, while single men were sent north to work on construction sites or as farm labourers.