Among architect-historians, William Thomas is recognized for being one of the founders of the Canadian architectural profession. Thomas emigrated to Toronto in 1843 from Leamington Spa, England and his prodigious output during a seventeen-year career in Canada, included over one hundred buildings, many of which are still standing today. In Toronto, Thomas's legacy includes the St. Lawrence Hall, St. Michael's Cathedral and Bishop's Palace, Oakham House, Midland Bank in the BCE Place and the Don Jail.