In 1886, George Thomas Browning purchased a one-acre property on Yonge Street, which included a charming frame cottage situated at the head of the lane behind the current house. Unfortunately, the once picturesque frame cottage no longer stands on the property.
Based on historical records and research, the George Browning House, designed in the Italianate/Tuscan villa style, is believed to have been built around 1889. Originally constructed as a yellow brick house, this architectural gem has withstood the test of time.
The report from the Heritage Advisory Committee contained impactful language that resonated with readers.
“The George T. Browning House at 15086-88 Yonge Street is a significant contributor to the character of Yonge Street. It is a distinguishing structure of substantial size that is given even greater visual importance by its commanding position well above the present level of Yonge Street and, on its north side, at the edge of the natural and man-made valley of the stream which crosses Yonge at this point.
“It is also one of the punctuation points of one of the very few surviving stretches of dwellings on Yonge Street in Aurora.” – Heritage Advisory Committee Report No. PL09-078, Oct-05-2009, pg 2-3.
No longer. The house stood unoccupied for years, neglected and deteriorating. It reached a point where it was beyond repair, beyond restoration, and no longer suitable for habitation. Ultimately, demolition became the only viable option.
“The house became not fix-able, not repair-able, not invite-able and demolish-able to say it at last.”
The historic home of George T. Browning has been a residence for many families over the years. Originally built by the Browning family, known for their craftsmanship, the house was sold to the Joseph Noble family in March of 1913. In 1926, the Nobles exchanged the property with Oscar and Ida Klinck, who became the new owners of 15086.
It is unclear whether the Klinck family actually lived in the Browning house, as there were tenants and subsequent owners by 1935. However, in 1974, the property changed hands once again, this time to Michael Evans. The Evans family has resided in the house for the longest period and currently operates a successful hardware store on Yonge Street.
It is worth noting that Evans Park, located on Bayview Street north of Wellington Street, may be named after Mr. Evans. As for the tree in front of the Browning house, its fate remains a mystery.
The demolition of the house is currently underway. The story is to be continued.
