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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: Looking back at Holly United Church

THEN AND NOW: Looking back at Holly United Church

A busy hub in the community in its time, the last service at Holly United Church was held in 1972
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THEN AND NOW: John Smith's Furniture Store was a family affair

THEN AND NOW: John Smith's Furniture Store was a family affair

John Smith opened his mostly used furniture store in 1879 and, after his death, his son, Albert, continued the family tradition
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THEN AND NOW: Arthur Smith's return coincides with dramatic municipal changes

THEN AND NOW: Arthur Smith's return coincides with dramatic municipal changes

Though he left Barrie for a period of time, Smith returned to the city in 1915 and served as town clerk and treasurer
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THEN AND NOW: Parkside Gospel Hall originally built as a stable

THEN AND NOW: Parkside Gospel Hall originally built as a stable

In 1931, Small Street was renamed Parkside Drive, based on its location on the west side of Queen’s Park
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THEN AND NOW: Corner Cupboard owner dazzled ladies with his cake-decorating skills

THEN AND NOW: Corner Cupboard owner dazzled ladies with his cake-decorating skills

Russell Bloomfield opened Corner Cupboard Bakery and Delicatessen in 1947, offering fresh baking, cooked meats, dainty salads and pastries
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THEN AND NOW: Cancilla's on Collier

THEN AND NOW: Cancilla's on Collier

Back of 21 Collier may be the last place the longtime family business operated, but it’s certainly not the first
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THEN AND NOW: Corby Motors once called Market Square home (5 photos)

THEN AND NOW: Corby Motors once called Market Square home (5 photos)

In 1949, Jack Corby applied for a permit to build a garage on the north side of Market Square, opening Corby Motors in 1950 near where Barrie City Hall stands today
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THEN AND NOW: Home of the creamery man

THEN AND NOW: Home of the creamery man

Tidy property on Burton Avenue gave Will Tordiff the chance to tend to his gardens; Land upon which house was built once belonged to an early sawmill operator in the area
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THEN AND NOW: 'A true heritage treasure,' Lilac Villa almost lost to fire

THEN AND NOW: 'A true heritage treasure,' Lilac Villa almost lost to fire

Barrie architect Thomas Kennedy’s signature home, built in 1882, showcased various designs available to clients
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THEN AND NOW: Bear welcomed customers at furrier's downtown shop

THEN AND NOW: Bear welcomed customers at furrier's downtown shop

Even in the 1950s, descendants of Simeon Simmons couldn't remember time when trademark bear wasn't out front
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