Grasett Park celebrates the response of the City of Toronto, particularly its physicians, nurses and other caregivers, to the influx of Irish migrants during the summer of 1847, many of whom arrived sickened and gravely afflicted from typhus, known then as ship fever.
Situated at the corner of Adelaide Street West and Widmer Street (on the same plot of land as Toronto’s first purpose-built General Hospital), the park is named after Dr. George Robert Grasett, who was appointed as Medical Superintendent of the Hospital in June 1847 and who - along with fellow doctors, nurses, orderlies, and other caregivers - died shortly thereafter from the same illness he sought to treat.
These courageous individuals played an important role in the medical history of the city as well as the history of migration and settlement of Toronto.   At the time, Toronto's population was roughly 20,000.  The arrival of 38,560 Irish migrants fleeing the Great Famine, including thousands who became sick during the perilous journey, quickly overwhelmed the Hospital's capacity and resources.  Temporary fever sheds were erected in the field behind the hospital, where the Grasett Park now stands.

Canada Ireland Foundation began early planning for the commemorative park in 2008.   Since then, the park's development has benefited from the support and contributions from many tremendous partners.
The official opening and dedication of Grasett Park will take place on July 16, 2021, on the 174th anniversary of Dr. Grasett's death.   Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Canada Ireland Foundation determined to hold a virtual (online) ceremony, with no public presence on-site, and to use the occasion to honour healthcare workers past and present.