Toronto's Centennial Committee

The Centennial of the City of Toronto was celebrated in 1934. The celebrations included numerous events, exhibitions, and commemorations. Of the most modern relevance is the "Toronto's Hundred Years" Publication Committee, which published Toronto's 100 Years, from which much historical perspective may be found.

Along with a General Centennial Committee, Toronto had at least sixteen Special Committees. They were the Music and Pagentry, Permanent Memorial, Flying, The "Toronto's Hundred Years" Publication, Travel Promotion, Veteran Reunion, Pictures, Religious Services, Stamp Exhibition, Sports, Street Decorations, Flower Show, Song Judging, Public Address, National Groups, and the Drills Corps Display Committee (which included a Mailing List Committee).

It is possible more Committees existed, as it was published "It is greatly regretted that the names of the members of other committees which are being formed are not available for this edition."

While events occurred throughout the year, many were scheduled to happen in one of three three-day periods. The first began on Victoria Day, the second after Dominion Day (now Canada Day), and the third at the end of summer, but before the Canadian National Exhibition's annual opening.

Of note, Toronto first proclaimed Victoria Day in 1848. Soon recognised by the federal government, Canada became the first country to declare it a national holiday. By the time of Toronto's centennial, the movement had spread to the entire British Empire.

Victoria Day (the 24th) was dedicated to the re-opening of Fort York, originally erected in the "virgin woods hereabouts in 1793". "At the touch of a Royal hand", the fort's gates were to be opened,

The guide to the centennial entices American readers by repeatedly highlighting General Zebulon Pike, encouraging them to "stand just as reverently here while the guide points out the exact spot on the battlements of Toronto's ancient citadel were Pike met death in his hour of victory."

Running all three nights of the period was an "inspiring historic" Empire Pageant. Held a night, the outdoor performances looked at the history of the city from the establishments of Natives and M. de la Galissoniere, to then present day educational, industrial, and social developments.

It was noted in promotional materials that:

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