The Peel Village subdivision was “designed for living the good life,” according to a sales brochure from about 1960.

At the time it was built, Brampton was relatively compact. There were few subdivisions beyond what we now think of as Brampton’s downtown core. The Elder mining company decided to branch out into real estate development, becoming Peel-Elder, and establishing Peel Village Developments.

Their president, Charles Watson, unveiled plans for an 800-acre development in 1959, suggesting Brampton’s population would double to a staggering 14,000 people by the end of their project.

Right from the start, the project proposed more than just houses, including an indoor shopping centre to be called Shoppers World, and jobs through “conforming industry” that they promised would ensure “no infringement on your privacy, no smoke nuisance” to residents.

The company offered three tiers of house plans, playfully dubbing them: “We’re just married,” “We’re a growing family,” and “There are seven of us.” Prices in the first development phase ranged from $15,395 for The Ambassador with a covered carport, to $17,995 for The Townsend with a garage.

Before you get too envious of the prices, remember, inflation makes prices relative. According to Statistics Canada, Ontario’s average wage in 1960 was $8,225. By 1965, the minimum hourly wage for men was $1, and for women, 95 cents.

The Peel Art Gallery, Museum and Archives is always on the lookout for 1950s and 1960s sales literature promoting new subdivisions like Peel Village, Ridgehill Manor or Bramalea, that we can add to our permanent collection. The Peel archives would love to hear from the public about any material that they could offer, by phone at 905-791-4055, ext. 3630, or by emailing pamaarchives@peelregion.ca

For more from the archives, visit www.pama.peelregion.ca.

Throwback Thursday is provided by Peel Art Gallery, Museum and Archives. PAMA is a place to explore, learn and make connections about Peel Region’s culture and heritage.