Scadding Cabin @ The CNE 2026
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It's that time of the summer and Scadding Cabin is open for visitation during the 2026 Canadian National Exhibition! We have our classic events such as spinning demonstrations and butterfly tagging as well as some new offerings!
Join us everyday from August 21st to September 7th from 12:00 PM to 7:00 PM!
Events Schedule:
Note: Activities & demonstrations run between 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM.
Fri Aug 21 Opening Day!
You've waited for us since last year! Welcome back to Scadding Cabin!
Sat Aug 22 Walking Wheel Handspinning Demonstration
Handspinning is an ancient yarn-making craft that has been in use since pre-biblical times which thrives in Southern Ontario to the present day. The demonstration at Scadding Cabin provides an opportunity for visitors to see yarn being spun on a Great Wheel (aka Walking wheel), on a single-treadle spinning wheel, and on a drop-spindle. Information about the steps followed to convert sheep fleece into yarn, from shorn fleece to finished hank, will be provided. Spinning Volunteers are from the Etobicoke Guild of Handspinners and Weavers.
Sun Aug 23 Toronto History in Old Books
An exhibit featuring some of the many books that have been written about Toronto over the years, including the first history of the city, published in 1873.
Meet the Archivist
Meet the talented York Pioneer & Historical Society Archivist and see some neat artefacts!
Mon Aug 24 No Scheduled Demonstrations
...But that won't stop you from visiting, will it?
Tue Aug 25 Walking Wheel Handspinning Demonstration
Handspinning is an ancient yarn-making craft that has been in use since pre-biblical times which thrives in Southern Ontario to the present day. The demonstration at Scadding Cabin provides an opportunity for visitors to see yarn being spun on a Great Wheel (aka Walking wheel), on a single-treadle spinning wheel, and on a drop-spindle. Information about the steps followed to convert sheep fleece into yarn, from shorn fleece to finished hank, will be provided. Spinning Volunteers are from the Etobicoke Guild of Handspinners and Weavers.
Wed Aug 26 Quilting: Yesterday and Today
Speak with a quilter on how the craft has changed from the past to present day. (BA)
Lt-Governor John Graves Simcoe and Mrs. Elizabeth Simcoe visit the Scadding Cabin
Lieutenant-Governor John Graves Simcoe and Mrs. Elizabeth Simcoe welcome visitors to the Scadding Cabin, built in 1794 for Simcoe's property manager, John Scadding. John Graves Simcoe (1752-1806) was a British army officer who became the first Lt-Governor of the newly-created Colony of Upper Canada. Elizabeth Simcoe (1762-1850) was a truly remarkable woman who left us a treasure trove of diaries, sketches, and paintings illustrating pioneer life in the 1790s, while also giving birth to 11 children. The Simcoes created an enduring legacy that continues to shape the City of Toronto and the Province of Ontario today.
Thu Aug 27 At the drop of a hat!
Join a miliner to share & talk about different types of 19th century bonnets & hats, while touching on the lives of real people who wore them here in Canada. In particular, Melicent Scadding, Susana Moody, Catherine Parr Trail,or the celebrated murderess, Grace Marks.
Fri Aug 28 The images and history of the Oldest house Scadding Cabin
See actual drawings from 1794 - 1796 when Mrs Elizabeth Simcoe sketched the cabin on the River Don.
Meals and Cooking in the 18th century
Meet a culinary historian in an 1820 costume displaying some 18th century authentic utensils; along with food prepared using recipes of the same era . Ready made samples in small, wrapped packages of what a family of five would prepare and serve for an afternoon tea when having company such as Mr and Mrs Simcoe one day will be available.
Sat Aug 29 Monarch Butterfly Tagging
We will bring caterpillars and pupas and discuss how we raise monarch butterflies. We will also catch and tag monarchs so we may find out if they get to Mexico.
West Toronto Photography Group
A Metis led not for profit arts group serving Toronto since 2011. Our organization is dedicated to promoting and supporting the work of local photographers, providing a platform for artistic expression, and fostering a vibrant community of visual arts enthusiasts. We are committed to offering educational workshops, organizing exhibitions, and creating opportunities for photographers to showcase their talent. Join us in celebrating the rich and diverse photographic heritage of West Toronto.
Sun Aug 30 Stitching at the Cabin
See a demonstration of one of the oldest skills, see examples of completed projects, and chat with the demonstrator.
Mon Aug 31 Walking Wheel Handspinning Demonstration
Handspinning is an ancient yarn-making craft that has been in use since pre-biblical times which thrives in Southern Ontario to the present day. The demonstration at Scadding Cabin provides an opportunity for visitors to see yarn being spun on a Great Wheel (aka Walking wheel), on a single-treadle spinning wheel, and on a drop-spindle. Information about the steps followed to convert sheep fleece into yarn, from shorn fleece to finished hank, will be provided. Spinning Volunteers are from the Etobicoke Guild of Handspinners and Weavers.
Tue Sept 1 Meals and Cooking in the 18th century
Meet a culinary historian in an 1820 costume displaying some 18th century authentic utensils; along with food prepared using recipes of the same era . Ready made samples in small, wrapped packages of what a family of five would prepare and serve for an afternoon tea when having company such as Mr and Mrs Simcoe one day will be available.
Wed Sept 2 The images and history of the Oldest house Scadding Cabin
See actual drawings from 1794 - 1796 when Mrs Elizabeth Simcoe sketched the cabin on the River Don.
Thu Sept 3 Monarch Butterfly Tagging
We will bring caterpillars and pupas and discuss how we raise monarch butterflies. We will also catch and tag monarchs so we may find out if they get to Mexico.
West Toronto Photography Group
A Metis led not for profit arts group serving Toronto since 2011. Our organization is dedicated to promoting and supporting the work of local photographers, providing a platform for artistic expression, and fostering a vibrant community of visual arts enthusiasts. We are committed to offering educational workshops, organizing exhibitions, and creating opportunities for photographers to showcase their talent. Join us in celebrating the rich and diverse photographic heritage of West Toronto.
Fri Sept 4 Stitching at the Cabin
See a demonstration of one of the oldest skills, see examples of completed projects, and chat with the demonstrator.
Walking Wheel Handspinning Demonstration
Handspinning is an ancient yarn-making craft that has been in use since pre-biblical times which thrives in Southern Ontario to the present day. The demonstration at Scadding Cabin provides an opportunity for visitors to see yarn being spun on a Great Wheel (aka Walking wheel), on a single-treadle spinning wheel, and on a drop-spindle. Information about the steps followed to convert sheep fleece into yarn, from shorn fleece to finished hank, will be provided. Spinning Volunteers are from the Etobicoke Guild of Handspinners and Weavers.
Sat Sept 5 No Scheduled Demonstrations
Come for the air show....stay for Toronto's Oldest House!
Sun Sept 6 No Scheduled Demonstrations
Come for the air show....stay for Toronto's Oldest House!
Mon Sept 7 Closing Day
It was great to see you....until next year!