Introduction to Vinegar Hill Community
There are two theories as to where the name Vinegar Hill originates. Some believe it is due to a cider mill that was once located in the east of the neighbourhood. Another reason could be that barrel makers used to fill their new barrels with vinegar, and roll them down the hill to test how straight they rolled! The Vinegar Hill community is comprised of historic, mid-century, and new homes. It has abundant wildlife and walking trails alongside the Rouge River. Scroll down to find out more!
Location
Vinegar Hill is located in east Markham. It is bounded to the south by Highway 407. The Rouge Valley River curls around its edges in the east, north, and west.
History of Vinegar Hill Community
Vinegar Hill was originally the heart of Markham Village as it was one of the first settled neighbourhoods in Markham. In the 1820s the residents established cider mills powered by the Rouge River, a school, and a post office.
In the 1830s, a small number of Roman Catholics had settled into Markham village. However, the 1847 potato famine drove a large number of immigrants from Ireland to Toronto. As a result, the city’s population more than doubled, and many new immigrants came to settle in Markham. Subsequently, Vinegar Hill was dubbed ‘Little Dublin’. As there was a need for a larger place to worship, Rouge Street was selected and in 1862 a wood frame church was built on the same site.
The Homes in Vinegar Hill Community
All the periods of modern Markham can be seen here as you stroll around the streets of Vinegar Hill! The neighbourhood is scattered with century homes dating back to 1828. Those homes nestle comfortably among mostly mid-century homes that are slowly being renovated. In addition, you can also find a few new builds here.
Transport & Commuting
Vinegar Hill is separated from Old Markham Village by the Rouge River. The bridge that connects the two communities has been rebuilt or repaired three times. In 1946, a 2-lane girder bridge was built to replace 3 smaller bridges that crossed the river at Princess Street, Mill Street and Markham Road. The bridge was repaired in 1981 and then in 2015, a brand new 3-lane box girder bridge was built.
Driving is the main source of transportation in Vinegar Hill, with Highway 407 just a short drive away. However, Markham Road is one of the main routes for public buses and the nearest Go Station for train travel to downtown Toronto – Markham Main Street – is a short 9-minute bus ride. Additionally, the Markham Road bus route crosses Highway 7 and from here, residents without vehicles can access the rest of Markham.
Parks and Recreation
The north end of Rouge Valley Park hugs the eastern boundaries of Vinegar Hill and is very popular with hikers, cyclists and nature enthusiasts. People find it quiet and peaceful and not too crowded most of the time.
The Aanin Community Centre is a 4-minute drive and has a pool, playground, youth room, multisensory room, fitness centre, walking/running track, teaching kitchen, business hub and other amenities. Additionally, Markham Village Community Centre is a 5-minute drive. It has a public library, ice rink, community hall and meeting rooms.
Schools
Vinegar Hill no longer has a school in the neighbourhood, so children travel short distances to nearby schools. Popular choices for primary schools are Franklin Street Public School, Roy H Crosby Public School and Sir Richard W Scott Catholic School. Secondary schools nearby are Markville Secondary School and Father Michael McGivney Catholic Academy. For more information about schools in Markham, visit our Schools in Markham – A Complete Guide page.
Conclusion
Vinegar Hill is a popular neighbourhood full of history and close to nature trails. It’s a great place for families who love walking the trails, without being too far from the convenience of a variety of amenities and activities – just a few minutes drive away
