Constructed in 1876 (± 1 year), 141 Isabella Street is representative of the early development of
historic St. John’s Grove (now known as the Upper Jarvis neighbourhood).

Furthermore, 141 Isabella Street is an increasingly rare example of a houseform building
situated on Isabella Street. During the mid-to-late 20th century, many of the houses situated
along the street — built from the street’s creation in 1850 onwards — were demolished for the
construction of modern apartment, institutional, and office buildings. The surviving houses are
important character defining elements reflecting and representing the history of Isabella Street
and the broader neighbourhood.

141 Isabella Street was first home to James Cooper — a wealthy shoe manufacturer and
merchant. In 1881, James Cooper constructed a larger residence — now known as the James
Cooper Mansion — only 160 meters north at 582 Sherbourne Street. This building has since
become one of the best known heritage landmarks in Downtown Toronto.

Other early residents included William Matthews — a gilder; and Richard Thorne — a spring bed
manufacturer.


During the 1920s, 141 Isabella Street was subdivided into apartments. During the 1970s/1980s,
these apartments were renovated for upscale rentals. These renovations preserved the exterior
heritage character of the house, albeit a small third floor addition was added to the roofline to
expand the third floor. Historic imagery of the property pre-addition could guide
redevelopment-related restoration.  

(Research by Adam Wynne)