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Then and Now

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Then and Now shares historical photos and personal stories of past people, places, and events and connects them to their significance today. They are made possible through the continued support of Georgian International as part of our Community Leaders Program.

THEN AND NOW: Military Drill Hall pressed into duty

THEN AND NOW: Military Drill Hall pressed into duty

It wasn’t the first military drill hall in Barrie, nor the last, but it has survived; in 1995, it was designated under the Ontario Heritage Act for it architectural and historical significance
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THEN AND NOW: Charming cottage sits among large brick homes

THEN AND NOW: Charming cottage sits among large brick homes

Records indicate that in 1871, possibly earlier, the property belonged to a local blacksmith, William Povey
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THEN AND NOW: One of West Village's lovely older homes

THEN AND NOW: One of West Village's lovely older homes

The classically-styled home at 203 Dunlop Street West, built on the former Perry Estate, is an example of the fine houses in this area
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THEN AND NOW: The former Caldwell home on Collier Street

THEN AND NOW: The former Caldwell home on Collier Street

The impressive red brick home was built in 1865 for William and Jane Caldwell, and their five children
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THEN AND NOW: Berczy St. home may have been two houses

THEN AND NOW: Berczy St. home may have been two houses

Built for John and Mary Forsyth, estate became home of soldier, former county sheriff
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THEN AND NOW: Tompkins and Heels — Monument Men

THEN AND NOW: Tompkins and Heels — Monument Men

Unassuming brick house on Essa Road features the most unexpected collection of 'lawn ornaments'
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THEN AND NOW: Abundance of awnings splashed colour on Dunlop

THEN AND NOW: Abundance of awnings splashed colour on Dunlop

Once-ubiquitous window coverings had functional purpose — to improve air flow, shade the merchandise and provide protection from the elements
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THEN AND NOW: Sunnidale Rd. has come long way since 1830s

THEN AND NOW: Sunnidale Rd. has come long way since 1830s

One of Barrie's oldest roads began to see major changes starting in the 1950s, and has come a long way since being described as a 'mere wagon track through the forest'
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THEN AND NOW: Mary St. house was focal point of busy life

THEN AND NOW: Mary St. house was focal point of busy life

Turn-of-the-century photos offer glimpse into the lives of happy, young Barrie family, but tragedy would soon rear its ugly head
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THEN AND NOW: How Barrie's CKVR made history

THEN AND NOW: How Barrie's CKVR made history

Barrie was the smallest community in North America to have its own TV station when CKVR went on the air in 1955
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