# @toronto_archives on Instagram

- **Type:** Image
- **Original URL:** https://www.instagram.com/p/DJElbsRNVa3
- **Gondola URL:** https://gondola.cc/posts/33999885-toronto-archives-instagram
- **Thumbnail:** https://img.gondola.cc/tr:w-,h-,fo-auto/postThumbnails/9e84518410.jpg
- **Posted:** 2025-04-30T13:01:37.000+00:00
- **Account Owner:** City of Toronto Archives (@toronto_archives) — https://gondola.cc/toronto_archives

## Caption

On #InternationalJazzDay here’s a look at Bourbon Street / Basin Street (1971-1986) and George’s Spaghetti House (1956-1984), the longest-running jazz club in Canada.

Both spots were opened by Doug Cole, a key figure in the early years of jazz in Toronto. In 1956 at Dundas and Sherbourne Streets, he founded George’s Spaghetti House, featuring musicians from across the country. Prolific jazz saxophonist Moe Koffman performed regularly, and for over two decades he was the club’s booking agent. It was the site of broadcasts and of recording sessions by Koffman, Guido Basso, Ed Bickert, Rob McConnell, Doug Riley, and Time Warp.

In 1971, Cole opened a second jazz spot at 180 Queen Street West. Bourbon Street on the main floor showcased both local and international jazz talent, with a number of artists recording live albums in the club. Basin Street on the second floor was also for jazz performances, including Salome Bey’s award-winning cabaret show “Indigo”, which at the spot in 1978. 

Cole was awarded the Order of Canada in 2008 for his role in the development of jazz in Canada. 

1. Queen Street West, west of Simcoe Street, north side, 1981. Fonds 1526, File 70, Item 16. 

2. View of Dundas Street East looking west at Sherbourne Street, 1977. Fonds 1526, File 71, Item 126. 

3. Corner of Sherbourne Street and Dundas Street, looking north-west, 1972. Fonds 2032, Series 841, File 50, Item 8. 

4. Corner of Sherbourne Street and Dundas Street, looking north-west, 1972. Fonds 2032, Series 841, File 50, Item 12. 

#TOhistory #TorontoArchives

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## Tags

torontoarchives, tohistory, internationaljazzday

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