Honest Ed’s hosted its final sign sale this weekend as it prepares to close its doors for good in December.
Thousands of hand-painted signs were up for grabs and some for as low as $1.
Speaking to CP24 Sunday, owner David Mirvish said he is pleased people want to hang on to a piece of Honest Ed’s history.
“I’m so glad that people want to share our memories,” he said.
“I see all these signs that we used to sell merchandise, people are keeping them. They are not appearing on eBay. They are not being traded. They are actually something people want and want to remember.”
Mirvish added that the downtown landmark, which occupies the southwest corner of Bloor and Bathurst streets, has given him many “wonderful memories.”
“I remember being a six year old only 66 years ago hiding underneath these counters and pulling a box in front and seeing how long it took my parents to find me,” Mirvish said with a laugh.
“As I got older, I had the privilege of working here on Saturdays and tagging merchandise or working at the cash desk.”
Honest Ed’s, a discount department store founded by Mirvish’s father Ed more than 60 years ago, was sold to Vancouver-based developer Westbank Properties in 2013.
Mirvish said he is “thrilled” at what they have planned for the area.
The redevelopment project, he said, will include rental housing, a park, and a market.
“Honest Ed’s alley” will remain intact, he added.
“It couldn’t be a greater tribute to my parents than that, then to carry on the name in the area,” Mirvish said.
“Now these people will take this neighbourhood and make it a vital part of the city, even more vital than it is today and I think that will be very healthy.”
Honest Ed’s officially closes on Dec. 31.
