Drumsnab or Sugar Loaf

Likely the oldest house in Toronto still used as a private home. Bought in 1834 by Franis Cayley with wonderful views over the Don Valley.

The land was originally the eastern part of the farm lot owned by George Playter. It was called Drumsnab as that is the old northern England term for a sugar loaf, and looking down to the Don River there were a few hills that resembled sugar loafs. The original first floor had thirty inch thick walls with stucco covered in hand drawn scenes. In 1856 a second-floor was added with a ballroom and bedrooms, and in 1908 further additions were designed by Eden Smith.

 
 

List of all subjects. You can also see all the historic photos for a given neighbourhood. We also have a list of all the photos arranged by date.

And you can also go up a level to see the other photos we've put under the category of Estates_and_Houses photos.

1845		Drumsnab as it appeared in a sketch circa 1845 - Francis Cayley home on Castle Frank Drive 179 years ago - Rosedale - 1845 Link to archive record - Map location (From the Toronto Public Library)
1850		Drumsnab Castle overlooking the Don River - watercolour - Francis Cayley house 174 years ago - Rosedale - 1850 Link to archive record - Map location (From the Toronto Public Library)
1969		Drumsnab - Great view from one of our oldest houses 55 years ago - Rosedale - Wednesday, November 5, 1969 Link to archive record - Map location (From the Toronto Public Library)
1979		Sugar loaf house: Named Drumsnab, the English north country word for a sugar loaf - had a view of mounds along the Don River when it was built in 1834 45 years ago - Rosedale - Monday, November 26, 1979 Link to archive record - Map location (From the Toronto Public Library)