Annual Fundraiser: York's Grand Affair

Thursday, April 16, 2026 | Campbell House Museum

You are most ardently invited to join us for an elegant evening of Toronto Regency history in celebration of Toronto's First Post Office's & the Town of York Historical Society's Annual Fundraiser. This event not only commemorates 192 years since the incorporation of the City of Toronto but also serves as a significant opportunty to suppor the preservation of our rich historical heritage.

Learn about the life and work of the Regency periods' most famous author, Jane Austen, and how her novels affected Town of York's residents at the time of their publication and the impact they are still having on Toronto residents today. After the presentation, guests will experience a regency dance demonstration.

Regency dress is strongly encouraged!

(Poster designed by Charlotte Jackson | charlottegjackson.ca |@cryptidcrowz)

Keynote Speaker:

Tabinda Kamal Khan

Tabinda Khan is a writer and an independent scholar based in Toronto Canada. She also holds a Masters in Literary Studies from University of Waterloo, specializing in the British Literature of the late eighteenth century and early nineteenth century. The focus of her writing and graduate research has been the literature of the Romantic period, specifically the women writers of the time, with a special attention to the works of Jane Austen, exploring the importance and relevance of her writing for our complex contemporary world. Her research is keen on exploring the similarities and differences between the lives of Regency women and contemporary women, and the reasons why Austen’s novels hold such pervasive relevance for girls and women of the 21 st century.

Currently, she is the Regional Coordinator of the Jane Austen Society of North America (JASNA) for the Toronto Metropolitan Region. She is also a committee member of JASNA’s annual Young Filmmakers contest which celebrates Austen’s legacy every year by accepting and awarding Jane Austen inspired films from students and filmmakers under 30 from all across North America. Her main focus these days is the revival and revitalization of the JASNA’s Toronto & Greater Toronto Regional Chapter.

Hybrid Event:

As our venue has a lower in-person capacity than previous years, virtual tickets will be available for purchase which will allow you access to the main presentation, keynote speaker, and the silent auction only. Purchase of a virtual ticket will not grant you entry to the event on-site. Please choose your ticket option with care.

Silent Auction & Other Highlights:

In addition to our keynote speaker, we will once again be hosting our Old Town Silent Auction featuring an exciting array of items! This year the Silent Auction will be virtual to allow virtual participation. The event will also include a regency dance demonstration after the keynote note speaker for in-person participants.

Regency dress is strongly encouraged to add to the elegance and atmosphere of the evening!

Food & Drink:

Small bites, non-alcoholic beverages, beer and wine available for purchase. Complimentary tea and coffee provided. Food & drink tickets available in advance at a reduced rate.

Event Details:
Date: April 16, 2026
Time: Doors Open at 6:30, Opening Remarks at 7:30
Location: Campbell House Museum - 160 Queen Street West, Toronto, ON

Supporting Toronto's Heritage:
Your attendance and support contribute to the preservation of Toronto's historical gems. As Toronto's First Post Office relies on the backing of its members, supporters, and volunteers, your participation in this event directly contributes to the ongoing mission of preserving the history of the Town of York and early Toronto.

Don't miss this unique opportunity to delve into the life and work of the Regency periods' most famous author, Jane Austen, and how her novels affected Town of York's residents at the time of their publication and the impact they are still having on Toronto residents today. Secure your tickets now and be a part of this enriching experience!

Thank you for supporting Toronto's First Post Office and the Town of York Historical Society!

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Host or Publisher The Town of York Historical Society & Toronto's First Post Office