Unlike some other Toronto parks, Raymore Park isn’t spectacular in the fall. Its vegetation is fairly drab at this time of year because there are few mature red maples and other showy trees. The main splashes of orangey-red come from sumac.
There are still a few splashes of colour on the ground. This birdsfoot trefoil is still flowering close to the ground in mid-October.
Something that has seen a dramatic increase in the last few years is the number of black walnut trees and fruit that support growing numbers of squirrels in the park. Several black walnut trees were planted by the city a few years ago while many just planted themselves thanks to forgetful squirrels. Black walnuts are edible by humans but require an elaborate dehusking and drying process – unlike their better-known cousins. Walnuts are able to poison their surroundings by emitting juglone from their root system. Many plants cannot survive the toxin emitted by its roots. Even the hulls are toxic and must be kept away from horses as they can contaminate bedding made from hay at this time of year.
The husks are green when they fall but juice from these husks will stain hands and clothing.
Friends of Raymore Park 
I was thinking of Raymore the other day, it being the anniversary of Hazel. I moved to Kingston 3 years ago and it’s a lovely place, but I still miss the Humber.
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Hi Jill, Raymore Park is a bit noisier these days – a private school(!) is renting a church basement on Kingdom and uses the park for 40-minute recesses several times daily!
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Good morning Mr. Murray,
My name is Vena Eaton and I am a member of Syme55+ Senior Centre in the west end of Toronto. I sit on the Travel and Outings committee and am reaching out today on their behalf.
I received your emails on Raymore Park and my dog and have visited the park on many occasions. I know the tragic story behind the lovely park and thought it would make an interesting outing for our members to see and hear your version of what happened on October 15, 1954.
Are you interested in doing a talk/walk about Raymore to our members (our group would likely be around 10-15 people)? The committee is planning for 2026 ande we would want to visit the park in the spring before all the new growth takes over the paths.
Is something you might be interested in? We would be willing to pay an honorarium for your time. Please let me know your thoughts. You may reach me either by email or on my cell at 416-577-9767.
Thank you for time and consideration,
Vena Eaton Syme55+ Seniors Centre Travel and Outings Committee
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