It might be difficult to imagine now, but at one time it was common for people in the neighbourhood to swim in the Don River (affectionately known at the time as “BAB” or “Bare Ass Beach”).
The river has had a great impact on the city and on Cabbagetown in particular. Gilles Huot of the Cabbagetown Preservation Association recently wrote another great article about the area, focusing on the Don River.
CABBAGETOWN UNCOVERED: The story of Toronto can be found by following the Don River and its history (insidetoronto.com)