Timothy Eaton Memorial Church


Timothy Eaton Memorial Church, in Toronto, Ontario, was erected at 230 St. Clair Avenue West in 1914 as a Methodist congregation, and it was named for department store founder Timothy Eaton. It is currently a United Church, and is a member of the Churches on the Hill.

History


The Methodist Social Union of Toronto approached members of the Eaton family for their support in the creation of a church in the area. As a memorial to her husband, Timothy Eaton, Margaret Wilson Eaton and her son, John Craig Eaton, donated the land for the church and financed the construction of the original structures. The Sunday School building was completed in 1911 and used for worship services until the sanctuary opened. Design of the church was given to the architectural firm Wickson & Gregg. Construction was completed in 1915.
One of the church’s best-known features is a 1915 stained glass reproduction of The Light of the World by English Pre-Raphaelite painter Holman Hunt, it was dedicated in memory of Timothy Eaton. After the death of Sir John Craig Eaton additional memorial windows were added. The majority of the stain glass in the church was created by the Robert McCausland Company of Toronto.
Famed Air Force Ace Billy Bishop was married in the church, and his funeral was held there four decades later.
The property is listed in the Municipal Heritage Property Register, since January 2008.

Broadcasts

This congregation has been known for its preaching ministry and music, and it has maintained radio and later internet broadcasts of its services.