Toronto's Historical Plaques
Learn a little of Toronto's history as told through its plaques.
The Princes' Gates
Yes, it's the eastern entrance to the CNE grounds with Winged Victory at the top of the arch. Please note that the gates are the Princes' Gates not the Princess Gates are some are want to call them. There are several plaques here. One, erected by Heritage Toronto in 2006, is located to the right as you approach the gates from Strachan Avenue. Here's what one says:
These monumental gates were erected in 1927 to mark the 60th anniversary of Canadian Confederation. Designed in the Beaux-Arts style by the Toronto firm of Chapman and Oxley, the gates - including the sculptures - were constructed of "artificial stone" made from cement. The sculptures were modelled by Charles D. McKechnie. Designed during a period of great national confidence, the gates use the style of ancient Greece and Rome to celebrate both Canada and the Canadian National Exhibition. Originally named "The Diamond Jubilee of Confederation Gates", the structure was renamed the "Princes' Gates" for Edward, Prince of Wales, and his brother Prince George, who were both present at its official opening on August 30, 1927.
Location Co-ordinates: 43.634802 -79.409523
Photo by Alan L Brown - August 2007
Another is an Ontario Heritage Foundation plaque located off to your left after entering through the arch. Here's what it says:
This entrance to the Canadian National Exhibition grounds was built in 1927 to commemorate 60 years of Canadian Confederation. The stone and concrete gates were designed by the Toronto firm of Chapman and Oxley and are a fine example of monumental architecture in the Beaux-Arts mode. Sculptor Charles D. McKechnie created the statues. The Winged Victory atop the central arch is flanked by figures representing the CNE's commitment to progress through industry, education and the arts. The gates were opened officially on August 30, 1927 by Edward, Prince of Wales, and Prince George. They have been known ever since as the 'Princes' Gates'.
Photo by Alan L Brown - March 2004
A third is built into the northern side of the arch. It reads:
The Princes' Gates were officially opened on August thirtieth MDCCCCXXVII by H.R.H. The Prince of Wales accompanied by H.R.H. Prince George. First to pass through these gates was a veterans' parade under the auspices of the Canadian Legion - The British Empire Service League for review by H.R.H. The Prince of Wales.
Photo by Alan L Brown - September 2006
Related page
Canadian National Exhibition
More 'Streets and Roads' pages
Here are the comments for this page.
(none yet)
Write a comment for this page.
(Note: If you wish to ask me a question, please use the email link in the menu.)
Note: Comments are moderated. Yours will appear on this page within 24 hours (usually much sooner).