The Lost Fortress of Toronto

March 16, 2025

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Insider Toronto
March 16, 2025

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PHOTOS OF THE WEEK
The Lost Fortress of Toronto: Toronto Amouries

Built in 1891, the Toronto Armouries on University Ave was a massive stone fortress that stood proudly with thick walls and towering oak doors. Inside, a vast drill hall stretched nearly the length of a football field, held up by a groundbreaking truss roof. It was an engineering marvel, but more than that, it was a place where soldiers trained before heading off to battle—from the Boer War to World War II.

For decades, the Armouries were a symbol of duty, sacrifice, and national pride. But as Toronto grew, space became more valuable than history. By the 1960s, city planners saw the building as outdated, standing in the way of progress. Despite protests, the once-mighty fortress was demolished in 1963, replaced by the University Avenue Courthouse.

The Toronto Armouries was located on University Avenue, just north of Osgoode Hall.

Front facade of the Armouries, on University Avenue. 1961

View of Toronto Armouries from Canada Life Building. 1930s.

Here’s the site today.

MUST HAVES TORONTO
Toronto: Then And Now

If you’re fascinated by Toronto’s history, Toronto: Then and Now by Doug Taylor is a must-read. I love this book and keep it on my desk at work. Even though I bought it in 2018, I still flip through the pages! This book pairs stunning vintage photos with their modern counterparts, showcasing how the city has evolved over time.

My personal copy that I keep in my office. I love flipping through this book!

RARE TORONTO FACTS
Did You Know…

What we call the PATH today, originated in 1900 as an underground tunnel connecting Eaton's main store at Yonge to its annex location behind old City Hall. Today it spans more than 30+ km!

VIDEO OF THE WEEK
18 Facts That Even Torontonians Do Not Know

Here is the link:
Click here to watch