Lilley’s Corners: A Window to Old East Village’s Soul by Charles, Mystic Wisdom Tea and Bookshop Perched at the crossroads of Adelaide and Dundas, Lilley’s Corners stands as a silent sentinel, witnessing the ebb and flow of Old East Village (OEV) for over 150 years. Built in 1871 by Charles Lilley, this weathered brick facade became more than just a landmark – it became our family’s new home after we moved from Smith St. near Hamilton Road in 1974. From our corner apartment windows, we had a front-row seat to the vibrant unfolding of OEV life. The bustling streets below echoed with the footsteps of generations, each leaving their mark on this once-economic powerhouse of London. As a child, I’d press my nose against the glass, watching the world go by, feeling the pulse of a neighbourhood that was so much more than just a place to live – it was a thriving, self-contained ecosystem. The 1970s OEV was a kaleidoscope of family-run shops and larger department stores, rivalling downtown London in its commercial vibrancy. The Palace Theatre stood proudly, its marquee lights dancing in the eyes of excited children lining up for Saturday matinees. The Western Fair Farmers and Artisans Market, though not yet the Saturday institution it would become, was already weaving itself into the fabric of our community life. From our vantage point at Lilley’s Corners, we could observe the daily rhythm of OEV. By day, the atmosphere buzzed with the laughter of older children heading off to play at Boyle Park, while summer evenings were filled with the gentle chatter of neighbours, embodying the ‘front porch culture’ that defined our area. The St. Regis Tavern, a neighbourhood fixture since
Late night in East London, late 60s. Photo by David Barber.
1890, opened its doors each evening, welcoming weary workers from nearby factories and shops. Growing up in OEV left an indelible mark on my soul. The mix of historical charm and modern vitality created an environment that was both nurturing and exciting. From the old livery stable behind Lilley’s Corners to the bustling Dundas Street corridor, every nook and cranny held a story, every storefront a memory. Today, as I gaze out from the storefront window of my daughter’s business, The Mystic Wisdom Tea and Bookshop, I’m struck by how much has changed, yet how much remains the same. OEV faces new challenges, having become a focal point for homelessness and other social issues. These challenges strain relationships within the community, testing the bonds that once made this neighbourhood so special. However, the spirit of resilience that defined OEV in the 1970s endures. The Old East Village BIA continues to work tirelessly alongside local businesses and residents to revitalize the area, attracting over $250 million in development since 2005. This dedication to growth and community-building echoes the efforts of Charles Lilley himself, who established the area’s first post office in 1872, creating an instant community hub. As OEV looks to the future, it grapples with the delicate balance of addressing the needs of vulnerable populations while addressing the concerns of long-time residents and businesses. Yet, the strong social fabric and history of resilience that once made Lilley’s Corners the heart of a thriving community may prove crucial in navigating these challenges.
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Page 10 Old East Villager January-February 2025
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