This was a very famous place in it’s day.
In 1923 they had the “Water Nymph’s” Contest. It was advertised in the papers and more men than women showed up.
The Bathing Pavillion you see below is still in existence, although now a fun restaurant on the beach.
Between the Pavillion and Toronto’s now renovated “Palais Royale”, where Count Basie, Duke Ellington and many greats played (Even the Stones played there much later)….
…. was a boardwalk & the most modern midway with rides, games and food. The Roller Coaster was the biggest in the world, and made of wood.
The next 2 shots attempt to show the entire mural, but don’t. It’s longer than I could capture.
It’s painted in an Impressionistic style on stucco, which makes for more photography woes. Also it’s at least 12 years faded.
The Beach Park is painted in the center of 3 strips. Above you have an early air show. Below is a painted garden.
It’s bordered by a parkette, and the summer they fill it with the same flowers that the artist painted on the mural.
Many historical writings say the beloved Toronto Amusement Park was burned down, an act of arson to make way for the Gardner Expressway. I’d love to back in time and spend a day here!
Pics taken by Resa, on October 15, 2012 & March 16, 2014
Toronto, Canada
Oh what fun!!! Gorgeous too~
It is sooo much fun there,even if it is a mere shell of what it used to be!
I am totally fascinated. Like Mr. Spock if he were. like, you know, a valley girl. This artwork makes a connection between me an place that ceased to exist two years before I was born. It was a different world back then, and this work of art lets me travel through time and space to experience it.
So glad you like it! I have been romanticized and fantasized by this place for 20 years. I love going to the Pavillion restaurant summer nights. When it’s dark they sometimes burn torches in the sand.
That sounds lovely.
Stunning… What a masterpiece … Playful time! ❤
Wonderful post, dear Resa. Hugs for your week ahead!, Aquileana 😀
Thank you…it is a masterpiece because Sunnyside and its history is a masterpiece. It was a more innocent time, and air-conditioning wasn’t a consideration so people went down to the beach daily. Good week to you sweet Aquileana! ❤
nicely nostalgic!
I agree!
Wonderful post!with love maxima