Background

Mary Pickford Historical Plaque

Commemorating the Toronto birthplace of Mary Pickford, 'America's Sweetheart' and a pioneer of the silent film era, near the Hospital for Sick Children.

4.5

A historical plaque and bust commemorating Mary Pickford, the Toronto-born silent film star and 'America's Sweetheart,' located on the grounds of the Hospital for Sick Children, near her birthplace. It marks the spot where Pickford's childhood home once stood.

A brief summary to Mary Pickford Historical Plaque

  • Sick Kids (The Hospital for Sick Children), 555 University Ave, Toronto, Old Toronto, Ontario, M5G 1X8, CA

Local tips

  • Visit the nearby Canada's Walk of Fame to see Mary Pickford's star and learn about other Canadian luminaries.
  • Combine your visit with a tour of the Hospital for Sick Children's art collection, showcasing works that promote healing and well-being.
  • Check out other historical plaques in the area to discover more about Toronto's rich history.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    From the intersection of University Avenue and College Street, walk south along University Avenue for approximately 5 minutes (400m). The Hospital for Sick Children will be on your right. The plaque is located on the hospital grounds, near the corner of Elm Street.

  • Public Transport

    Take the subway to Queen's Park Station on the University line. Exit the station and walk south on University Avenue for about 7 minutes (600m). The Hospital for Sick Children will be on your right, with the plaque located on the grounds near Elm Street. A single subway fare is $3.25 CAD.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    From downtown Toronto, a taxi or ride-share to the Hospital for Sick Children (555 University Ave) will typically cost between $10-15 CAD, depending on traffic and surge pricing.

Unlock the Best of Mary Pickford Historical Plaque

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Mary Pickford Historical Plaque

The Mary Pickford Historical Plaque commemorates the birthplace of Gladys Louise Smith, known to the world as Mary Pickford, one of the most popular actresses of the silent film era. Born in Toronto in 1892, Pickford began her acting career at a young age and rose to international fame, becoming known as 'America's Sweetheart'. The plaque is located on the grounds of the Hospital for Sick Children, near the corner of University Avenue and Elm Street, close to where Pickford's childhood home once stood. The original house was demolished to make way for the hospital. In addition to the plaque, a bust of Mary Pickford, commissioned by the Mary Pickford Foundation, was added in 1983. Pickford's early life in Toronto saw her performing on stage at the age of five. By 1907, she had adopted the name Mary Pickford and was performing on Broadway. Her film career began in 1909, quickly establishing her as a major star. Pickford co-founded United Artists in 1919 and was one of the original founders of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. She won an Academy Award for Best Actress in 1929 for her role in 'Coquette'. The plaque serves as a tribute to her significant contributions to the film industry and her Toronto roots.

Popular Experiences near Mary Pickford Historical Plaque

Popular Hotels near Mary Pickford Historical Plaque

Select Currency