Toronto: Brothels of Old Toronto History Walking Tour

Discover the scandalous side of Toronto’s past on this captivating history tour. Led by a knowledgeable professor, you will explore the hidden backstreets of Old Toronto, uncovering the lives of resilient sex workers and influential madams. From coded language to high-profile scandals, this 1.5-hour experience promises an enlightening glimpse into the city’s provocative 19th-century underbelly. With a 4.9/5 rating, it’s a must for history enthusiasts seeking to uncover the untold stories that shaped Toronto’s vibrant, yet little-known, past. What secrets might these cobblestoned streets hold?

Good To Know

• This 1.5-hour walking tour explores the hidden brothel sites and scandalous histories of 19th-century Toronto, guided by a history professor with expertise on the subject.

• The tour highlights the lives and experiences of sex workers, madams, and their significant historical impacts on Toronto society.

• Participants will learn about the use of secret codes, architectural features, and fashion choices that were employed by brothel-goers during the Victorian era.

• Notable high-profile clients, including disgraced politicians and businessmen, and the societal impact of their scandals are discussed during the tour.

• The tour has a 4.9/5 rating, with guests praising the dynamic and educational experience of exploring the hidden and provocative history of Toronto.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Details

The Toronto: Brothels of Old Toronto History Walking Tour provides an immersive exploration into the hidden brothel sites and scandalous history of 19th-century Toronto.

Priced at $26.43 per person, this 1.5-hour guided tour led by a history professor offers a fascinating look into the lives of sex workers, madams, and their influential impact on the city’s past.

Guests can expect to discover secret codes, architectural details, and fashion trends that defined the era, all while learning about the notorious clients and scandals that made Old Toronto infamous.

The tour operates in all weather conditions, making it an engaging and accessible experience for history enthusiasts.

Guided by a History Professor

During this captivating Toronto history tour, guests are guided by a seasoned history professor who brings the city’s intriguing past to life.

With their expert knowledge and engaging storytelling, the professor takes visitors on an eye-opening journey through Old Toronto’s notorious brothel district.

They illuminate the diverse lives and experiences of sex workers, madams, and clients, unveiling the complex social dynamics that shaped this infamous era.

Listeners are captivated as the professor delves into the hidden codes, architectural details, and scandalous tales that defined Toronto’s seedy underworld.

Through their dynamic presentation, the past comes alive, offering a thought-provoking glimpse into a chapter of the city’s history that’s both fascinating and provocative.

Exploring Hidden Brothel Sites

Venturing into the hidden backstreets of old Toronto, the tour group follows the professor’s lead, eager to uncover the clandestine brothel sites that once dotted the city’s shadowy underworld.

The guide points out discreet alleyways and unassuming buildings, their facades belying the scandalous secrets that lurked within. Guests lean in, captivated as the professor recounts the stories of the madams and sex workers who operated these establishments, navigating a world of wealthy clients and shady dealings.

Architectural clues reveal hidden passages and coded language, painting a vivid picture of the illicit activities that thrived in the shadows of Victorian-era Toronto.

Sex Workers, Madams, and Impacts

Captivating tales of the resilient sex workers and shrewd madams who navigated Toronto’s scandalous underworld take center stage on the tour.

Guests uncover the stories of trailblazing individuals like:

• Sophie Lyons, the "Queen of the Bank Burglars", who used her brothel as a front for her criminal operations

• Fanny Heaslip, a madam renowned for her lavish parties and political connections

• Maggie Vickers, a sex worker who rose to prominence as a savvy businesswoman and philanthropist

• Bertha Simpson, whose brothel was a hub for Toronto’s elite, hosting politicians, judges, and other high-profile clients

These compelling narratives shed light on the complex lives and significant impact of those who shaped Toronto’s notorious past.

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Clients and Scandalous Histories

The tour then shifts its focus to the scandalous histories and high-profile clients that made Toronto’s brothels infamous. Visitors learn about disgraced politicians, prominent businessmen, and even members of the clergy who frequented these establishments, seeking discretion and indulgence. A table of notable clients and their scandals paints a vivid picture of the underbelly of 19th-century Toronto society:

Client	Scandal	Impact
Alderman Jeremiah Bingham	Caught in a brothel raid	Forced to resign from office
Reverend Samuel Sherwood	Affair with a sex worker	Excommunicated from the church
Industrialist Henry Pellatt	Regular patron, exposed in tabloids	Damaged public reputation
Judge Cornelius Kingsmill	Soliciting minors in brothels	Impeached and disbarred
Mayor William Howland	Frequented brothels, used city funds	Political career ruined

Secret Codes, Architecture, and Fashion

Brothel-goers of old Toronto relied on a secretive language of coded phrases, discreet architectural features, and fashion choices to navigate the city’s red-light districts.

Madams and sex workers developed a secret vernacular, using terms like "the garden" to refer to brothels and "a night’s entertainment" for their services.

Brothels often featured hidden doors, darkened windows, and inconspicuous entryways to maintain an air of mystery.

Fashion was also a means of communication, with women donning elaborate hairstyles, heavy makeup, and provocative attire to signal their availability.

• Coded phrases like "the garden" and "a night’s entertainment"
• Discreet architectural features such as hidden doors and darkened windows
• Elaborate hairstyles, heavy makeup, and provocative attire
• Inconspicuous entryways to maintain an air of mystery

Tour Logistics and Inclusions

Beyond the secret codes and fashion cues from the red-light districts, the Toronto: Brothels of Old Toronto History Walking Tour offers an immersive experience for guests. Led by a passionate history professor, the 1.5-hour walking tour explores the hidden brothel sites and scandals that shaped Old Toronto. Guests will discover the stories of sex workers, madams, and their impact on the city’s notorious past. The tour operates rain or shine, so visitors should dress appropriately. Comfortable shoes, a camera, and water are recommended. While the tour is not suitable for children under 18, adults can enjoy this captivating look into Toronto’s scandalous history.

Tour Details	Inclusions	Important Info
$26.43/person	Live guide	18+ only
1.5 hours	Walking tour	No smoking/recording
Wheelchair accessible	Hotel pickup/drop-off	Dress for weather

Customer Ratings and Highlights

Guests rave about the dynamic and educational experience of the Toronto: Brothels of Old Toronto History Walking Tour.

With an impressive 4.9/5 rating from 41 reviews, this tour earns high praise from visitors.

As one reviewer, Kelsie, notes, "Learned a lot and enjoyed the experience!"

Another, Brigitte, describes the tour as "Dynamic; learned a lot and felt welcomed."

Passionate guide Scott declares it the "Best tour ever," praising the guide’s expertise and the importance of the stories shared.

Highlights of the tour include:

• Exploring hidden brothel sites from the 1800s
• Learning about sex workers, madams, and their impact on Toronto’s history
• Discovering clients and scandals that made Old Toronto infamous
• Discussing secret codes, architecture, and fashion history

Frequently Asked Questions

Will the Tour Guide Discuss the Legal Status of Sex Work?

The tour guide likely discusses the complex legal status of sex work during the time period. They’ll provide historical context on the shifting laws and societal attitudes that impacted the lives of sex workers in old Toronto.

Are There Any Safety Precautions Taken During the Tour?

The tour takes precautions to ensure participants’ safety. Guides lead the group responsibly, prohibiting smoking, video/audio recording, and maintaining an appropriate age limit. Participants are advised to wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather.

Can Participants Request Specific Topics to Be Covered?

Participants can request specific topics to be covered during the tour. The knowledgeable guide is happy to tailor the experience to guests’ interests, ensuring they get the most out of this immersive historical exploration.

Is the Tour Content Suitable for Those With Trauma Histories?

Although the tour covers mature themes, the guide is sensitive to participants’ needs. Those with trauma histories may want to speak with the guide beforehand to ensure the content aligns with their comfort level.

Are There Any Restrictions on Photography During the Tour?

The tour has a prohibition on video and audio recording. However, still photography is generally allowed as long as it doesn’t disrupt the guide or other participants. Guests are advised to check with the tour operator for any specific guidelines.

The Sum Up

The "Toronto: Brothels of Old Toronto History Walking Tour" offers a captivating journey into the city’s scandalous past. Guided by a knowledgeable historian, participants uncover the hidden lives of resilient sex workers, influential madams, and high-profile clients. Through coded language, architectural secrets, and notable scandals, the tour promises an enlightening and immersive experience for history enthusiasts. With a 4.9/5 rating, it’s a must-do for those eager to explore Toronto’s tantalizing underworld.

You can check if your dates are available here: