Sherman Avenue (Hamilton, Ontario) - History

History

Sherman Avenue, originally called Shearman Avenue which was named after the first land assessor of the district, nothing more is known of Shearman who remains a man of mystery in Hamilton's history books. Later the name was changed from Shearman to Sherman Avenue in honour of brothers Clifton Sherman, (1872–1955) and Frank Sherman, (1887–1967), who both founded Dominion Foundries and Steel (later called Dofasco) in 1912, creating a giant that would bring prosperity and identity to the city.

The steel industry continued to grow in the late 19th century through to the early 20th century and finally consolidate through this period, some combining to form the Steel Company of Canada (Stelco) in 1910. Dominion Steel Casting Company (Dofasco) was established two years later in 1912. Later named Dominion Foundries and Steel, the company merged with its subsidiary, Hamilton Steel Wheel Company in 1917. The name was officially changed to Dofasco Inc. in 1980.

On July 15, 1946, after a meeting at the Playhouse Theatre, on Sherman Avenue North, Local 1005 members of the United Steelworkers of America at Stelco marched to the plant gates to start the famous strike of 1946. The fight was over Union recognition, a 40-hour work week and wages. With the help of Hamilton's community this struggle changed Canadian Labour history. It forced employers to accept collective bargaining and helped start a mass trade union movement in Canada.

St. Peter's Hospital is a 250-bed chronic care hospital located on Maplewood Avenue 3-blocks east of Sherman Avenue South in downtown Hamilton, Ontario specializing in the care of older adults. The hospital is a part of the "St. Peter's Family of Services," which also includes home care, long-term care, and research branches. Founded by the Anglican Church in 1890.

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