The exhibition A COMMON THREAD chronicles the history of the garment industry in Toronto, that began over a hundred years ago, centred in and around Spadina Avenue. The Jewish community was an integral part of the industry's development and still identifies closely with the trade.

From before the turn of the 20th century to today, the exhibition explores: immigrant opportunities; Spadina Avenue and its role in the industry; working conditions and unions; ready-to-wear vs. made-to-measure; corporate successes and individual stories of those who worked in the industry. Vintage clothing, documents, photographs and tools of the trade provide a colourful backdrop to the exhibition.

Included is a video component of interviews and old films, and a full colour exhibition catalogue. The exhibition will run through June 2004 at Beth Tzedec Museum, after which it will travel to other museum venues in Ontario and beyond.

THIS PROJECT HAS RECEIVED A GENEROUS GRANT FROM  The Ontario Trillium Foundation, an agency of the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Recreation, receives annually $100 million of Government funding generated through Ontario's charity casino initiative. The Foundation provides grants to eligible charitable and not-for-profit organizations in the arts, culture, sports, recreation environment and social service sectors. And gifts from friends and supporters of Beth Tzedec and the Garment Industry.

Photo Gallery of "A Common Thread"

A Common Thread: A History of Toronto’s Garment Industry
The exhibit catalogue for A Common Thread: A History of Toronto’s Garment Industry is available for sale.

The cost is  $20.00 Cdn, plus $5.00 for shipping and handling.  Cheque only.