John Street (Markham) - History

History

This road, along with any side streets in Thornhill, are one of the oldest roads in Markham, with over 200 years of history. The road is believed to be built in the 19th century, named after John Colborne. Colborne Street, immediately south of John Street, was also named after John Colborne. John Street was believed to be built around 1828-1836. Prior to that, Thornhill was a little community with houses along Yonge Street. John Street allowed eastward developments. The development of Thornhill in the 19th century stopped at what is nowadays Henderson Avenue, and along the section of John Street between Yonge Street and Henderson Avenue are developments from that time. The area is now preserved under the city of Markham's Heritage Department. Along John Street in this area, the road signs are labelled as "Old Thornhill Circa 1794". This part of John Street is also considered as the heart of Old Thornhill.

The road is also home to the Sutton Frizzel's house. Originally located on Yonge and Royal Orchard, it was moved in the 20th century due to the widening of Yonge Street. It was built by the Tory Loyalist in the 19th century, and its original occupants played a significant role in the Rebellions of 1837.

In the 20th century, as Markham's population rapidly grows, John Street was extended to its current length, with modern housing along the road.

In 2004, the corner of John and Bayview is under redevelopment of medium dense residential. This new redevelopment is referred to as "Olde Thornhill Village".