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Local Landmarks & Heritage

  • Thomson Memorial Park
  • Scarborough Museum
  • St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church
  • Birkdale Community Centre

Neighborhood History

Bendale takes its name from a Scottish geographic reference — originally called Benlomond after Ben Lomond, the mountain on the shore of Loch Lomond in the Scottish Highlands. The post office opened under that name in 1878, but the name was already in use elsewhere in the region, prompting a rename to Bendale in 1881. The neighborhood's European settlement dates to 1796, when David and Mary Thomson became among the first settlers in the former Township of Scarborough. Their arrival — along with David's brothers Andrew and Archibald — established the agricultural foundation of what would become one of Scarborough's earliest communities. Residential development in its modern form came in the 1950s, when the area was built out with the bungalows and split-level brick homes that still define its streetscape today.

Thomson Memorial Park, located off Brimley Road, is the neighborhood's most historically significant landmark — it preserves the legacy of the founding Thomson family and contains the Scarborough Museum, which houses historic structures including the Springfield House (built 1840) and St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church (1849), erected on land donated by David Thomson. The Birkdale Community Centre on Ellesmere Road serves as an ongoing civic gathering point for the neighborhood.

Bendale's identity is rooted in the endurance of its pioneer heritage and the mid-century residential character that followed — the kind of neighborhood story MY-NHD was built to wear.

MY-NHD

Bendale - Scarborough - Unisex Cotton Tee

Bendale - Scarborough - Unisex Cotton Tee

Regular price $29.95 CAD
Regular price Sale price $29.95 CAD
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Originally called Benlomond for a Scottish mountain, this area became Bendale in 1881, cementing its mixed Scottish and Canadian heritage. The neighbourhood’s spirit is celebrated at the Scarborough Historical Museum in Thomson Memorial Park, while St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church offers a glimpse of Bendale’s pioneer past. Quiet residential streets and mature trees help preserve the neighbourhood’s village roots, even as it grows.

Remember, celebrate and connect with your neighbourhood! This unisex heavy cotton tee is your new favourite outfit staple! A perfect blend of style and local pride! Celebrate your community in a whole new way with our tees, featuring your neighborhood name printed right on the fabric! Made with 100% US cotton for year-round comfort that is sustainable and highly durable.

  • The classic fit of this shirt ensures a comfy, relaxed wear
  •  Sizes from S-5XL
  • Choose your colour!
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