W.J. Morrish General Store

William J. Morrish ran this store. The Morrish General Store was built in 1890. This store was considered the finest store in Highland Creek farming community and provided space for living(for the Morrish family), sales and storage. They sold hardware, dry goods, boots, shoes, farming machinery, and basic groceries. In 1914 the automobile started to replace the horse as a means of transportation. William had installed a gas pump here, which was the only one between Whitby and Toronto. Gas at the time was sold for 17 cents a gallon and he only profited 3 cents.

Before William had passed away In 1924, the store was passed down to his sons, Roy and Charles. The store remained open untill 1967.

In the later (a)90(a)s Scarborough(a)s Architectural Conservation Committee had made an acquisition of the property to restore this vital landmark. The building is now served as the local archive for the Historical Society and is the home base for the HCCA (Highland Creek Community Association).

I was fortunate enough to be taken on a tour and was allowed to take some photos, but due to security reasons and permissions I am not able to post any interior shots of the store. The interior is amazing! and still mainly in it(a)s original state.{minor modifications and some restoration was done}. The 16 foot long counter, the W.J. Morrish Store safe, clothes washer, some other stuff, and one of the last remaining hand lift elevators still remain in the store. If you(a)re near by and want to do some research on the local area or just want to see the store, I strongly suggest go and check it out. They(a)re open 6 days a week by appointment only and open 1 day out of the week to the public{thursdays 7pm to 9pm}.

Enjoy!

To read more about the store and the community visit this link. Ref: www.CCranews.com/morrish_store.htm