Mackenzie House
Traitor or Patriot? Visionary or Fool? Friend to Democracy or Enemy of the Crown?
What role did William Lyon Mackenzie play in the history of Toronto? Mackenzie House looks to explore Victorian Toronto and the contrary and controversial man who had such an impact on our city – from journalist to mayor, mayor to exile, exile to politician.
This tiny, historic former row house sits surrounded by skyscrapers in the heart of downtown Toronto, just steps from Canada’s busiest intersection. Discover the Mackenzie story and gain a glimpse into the gritty Victorian era in which he lived: a time of macabre fascination, an era obsessed with crime, secrets, spirits, and death. Learn about the history of the house, the diverse people who made it their home, and the ever-evolving urban neighbourhood that has grown up around it.
Rumoured to have its own resident ghosts, Mackenzie House explores the border between rebellion and respectability, life and death. Are you brave enough to discover all this for yourself?
The historic part of Mackenzie House is under restoration. Drop-in workshops in the printshop are offered.
Admission
General admission is free. Some exhibitions and events may carry a separate charge where noted.
Hours of Operation
Wednesday to Sunday: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Exhibits and Events
Browse the Toronto History Museums Calendar to find special exhibits and events happening at this and other museum sites.
Health and Safety
The public is not required to wear a mask but may choose to wear a mask in any settings they wish and will be supported in doing so. Museum visitors are treated with respect and understanding, regardless of their decision to wear a mask.
On-site Services
- Parking: commercial lots nearby
- Partial accessibility. Please call 416-392-6915 for specific accessibility questions
Groups of 15 people or more will be charged a fee for their visits. This fee includes a reserved time for your group and a dedicated tour guide to ensure an enjoyable and engaging experience.
For more information on group tours, fees or to book your group visit, email machouse@toronto.ca. Please contact us 14 days in advance of your preferred visit date. Groups without an advanced booking may not be accommodated.
By Transit
Take the Yonge/University subway line to Dundas subway station, exit to surface and walk two blocks east to Bond Street. Or, take either the Dundas or Queen streetcar to Bond Street and walk south from Dundas Street East or north from Queen Street East. For specific TTC route and schedule information call 416-393-4636 (INFO) or visit the TTC website.
Location
This restored 1858 townhouse was the final home of William Lyon Mackenzie, Toronto’s first mayor and leader of the 1837 Rebellion. The site features furniture from the nineteenth century, an 1845 printing press and artifacts from its former print shop.
In 1936 when William Lyon Mackenzie King, Mackenzie’s grandson, was Prime Minister, the house was saved from demolition when its neighbouring row houses were destroyed.