Born in 1893 in a house that stood near this site, Gladys Marie Smith appeared on stage in Toronto at the age of five. Her theatrical career took her to Broadway in 1907 where she adopted the name Mary Pickford. The actress's earliest film, "Her First Biscuits," was released by the Biograph company in 1909 and she soon established herself as the international cinema's first great star. Her golden curls and children's roles endeared her to millions as "America's Sweetheart." She was instrumental in founding and directing a major film production company and starred in over fifty feature-length films, including "Hearts Adrift," "Pollyanna" and "Coquette." For the last-named film, she received the 1929 Academy Award as the year's best actress.

Location

On the grounds of the Hospital for Sick Children, near her birthplace, 555 University Avenue, Toronto

Themes

• Arts and culture
• People
• Women's history