1

As Canada's centennial approached, communities throughout the country began to develop special projects to commemorate the event. Federal funding was offered to projects which stressed local communities' heritage and past.

2

Mayor True Davidson and restoration architect Peter Stokes discussing the centennial project
1966
Todmorden, Ontario

3

In East York, Mayor True Davidson championed the conversion of the four historic buildings that remained in situ in the Don Valley: Helliwell House, Terry House, the Brewery building and the Paper Mill.

4

Mayor True Davidson and architect Peter Stokes in front of Helliwell House
1966
Todmorden, Ontario

5

In 1964, the East York Centennial Committee was established and the Todmorden Mills Museum was proposed as a suitable project for the 1967 celebrations.

6

Mayor True Davidson assisting with the painting of the Terry House
1967
Todmorden, Ontario

7

The East York Foundation was established in 1965; its mandate was to raise funds for the preservation and restoration of the buildings.

The Foundation was instrumental in the realization of the establishment of the Museum.

8

Making adobe bricks for the restoration of Helliwell House
1966
Todmorden, Ontario

9

Mrs. Nell Donaldson, an interior decorator, was engaged to assist with the room furnishings of the historic houses.

The interiors of Helliwell House were restored to reflect the styles popular in 1867, while Terry House interiors were restored to 1837.

10

The Terry family's contribution to the Todmorden Mills Museum
1967
East York, Ontario

11

The project met with the generous support of the community. Descendants of many of the founding families of the Valley contributed their heirlooms to the Museum.

12

Official opening of the Todmorden Mills Museum
1967
Todmorden, Ontario

13

In May 1967, Todmorden Mills Museum opened to the public as East York's contribution to the celebration of Canada's centennial.

The Brewery building became the administrative offices and temporary exhibit space for the Museum.

14

Official opening of the relocated Don Train station at Todmorden Mills Museum
1969
East York, Ontario