Every March 6, the Town of York Historical Society and Toronto's First Post Office hold an event to honour the anniversary of Toronto's incorporation. Each year, in the historic ballroom at St. Lawrence Hall, we highlight some aspect of the city's past. This year marks Toronto's 181st birthday.

THE POSTMAN

We are honoured to present a new, Toronto-specific, theatrical production! The story is of Toronto's first African-Canadian postman, Mr. Albert Jackson, who was born into slavery and escaped to Toronto via the Underground Railroad. In Toronto, Albert was able to attend school, a right denied his older brothers and sisters in the United States. Upon completing his education, he applied to the Postal Service, and was appointed Postman. However, his his white co-workers refused to train or work with him. Albert was demoted, in an attempt to defuse the tension, but this was met with an outcry by Toronto’s Afro-Canadian community. The debate raged for weeks until it eventually escalated to the Prime Minister’s office. John A. Macdonald was urged to intervene on Jackson’s behalf.

The talented group of artists working together on The Postman have come together at the invitation of Appledore Productions, dramaturge/director David Ferry and actor Laurence Dean Ifill. The production incorporates original gospel, folk, and blues music, and is a moving tribute to Jackson’s life. Appledore Productions has worked consistently with writers, musicians, directors and actors in various challenging projects for more than 25 years.

For more information about Appledore Productions and The Postman, visit thepostmanwalks.wordpress.com.

SILENT AUCTION

A successful new addition to the festivities last year, the silent auction is back! Auction lots include hotel packages, culinary experiences, theatre tickets, and much more. We appreciate the support of many community partners in this fundraiser.

Proceeds from this event benefit the Town of York Historical Society and Toronto’s First Post Office, a museum and National Historic Site. The Town of York Historical Society researches, interprets, and promotes the history of the Town of York and early Toronto, and fosters the preservation of the Town of York’s surviving built environment.

Follow us on Facebook and Twitter, @TOs1stPO, and this event at #TOs181st.