In some ways, Toronto’s midtown neighbourhoods are changing faster than the rest of the city. But many of the vintage business signs are still recognizable landmarks for those who live and work in these areas.  

The idea of a camera club having its own building is a vintage one in itself. (IMAGE: LIBBY ROACH)

 

Home of the famous Twister bagel. (IMAGE: LIBBY ROACH)

 

Cumbrae’s is one of the best butchers in the city. (IMAGE: LIBBY ROACH)

 

Add the Capitol to the list of threatres now hosting private events rather than movie premieres. (IMAGE: LIBBY ROACH)

 

Sometimes, the signs for older businesses need to make concessions to newer concerns like allergies. (IMAGE: LIBBY ROACH)

 

The Eglinton cinema has found a second life as an event venue. (IMAGE: LIBBY ROACH)

 

Signs can mark the border between retail and residential strips. (IMAGE: LIBBY ROACH)

 

In others, the patina of age is actual. (IMAGE: LIBBY ROACH)

 

In some cases the vintage sign bears a degree of affectation. (IMAGE: LIBBY ROACH)

 

The Mt. Pleasant is one of the neighbourhood cinemas that is still showing movies. (IMAGE: LIBBY ROACH)

 

Even if the sign itself isn't that old, the "variety" name definitely qualifies as vintage. (IMAGE: LIBBY ROACH)

 

At de Mello Palheta we found an intriguing use of street-style mural as sign. (IMAGE: LIBBY ROACH)