McNab Street started "unofficially" in 1981, when founder, Shawna Fryer, began a classroom newsletter for her grade-one peers. Fashion dilemmas, dealing with such issues as mittens on string and socks that double in size at the toe by the end of the day, homework advice and upcoming events were a few of the sections. She began her writing business in her bedroom at 88 McNab Street, Elora, Ontario.

After completing degrees in Psychology and Education, and attending Humber College's Journalism program, Shawna decided to launch her official writing business full-time. Although she no longer lives on McNab Street, she will always credit her start to the bungalow on the hill and her cloud-wallpapered bedroom.