One of the earliest Free Methodist societies in Canada was established in this area at nearby Ellesmere in 1874. The first services were held in a "Meeting House" provided by Robert Loveless, a former Primitive Methodist, who was largely responsible for the organization of this congregation. Within six years another congregation had been established here at Armadale with initial services being held in the home of Silas Phoenix. The growth of the congregation led to the construction of this simple frame church in 1880. Built chiefly by volunteer labour on land acquired from Francis Underwood, this building, the oldest continuing Free Methodist place of worship in Canada, henceforth served the combined Ellesmere-Armadale congregation and stands as a tribute to the efforts of the early Free Methodists.

Location

In front of the church, Passmore Avenue, west of Markham Road, Toronto

Themes

• Buildings and structures
• Religion