Discover Toronto's history as told through its plaques

2004 - Now in our 15th Year - 2019

To see what's new on this site, you can visit the Home Page

Looking at this page on a smartphone?
For best viewing, hold your phone in Landscape mode (Horizontal)

Canadian Military Institute Building 1908

Photos by Alan L Brown - Posted May, 2008

In front of this 108-year-old building at 426 University Avenue is this 2006 Heritage Toronto plaque. (Note: As of July 2016, the plaque is no longer outside. It is currently in storage.) Here's what the plaque says:

Coordinates: 43.653652 -79.388323

Click here for a larger map

This is one of the few remaining early buildings on University Avenue. Across the street from the Armouries (demolished 1963), it was designed in the Beaux-Arts style for the Canadian Military Institute by Chadwick and Beckett, Architects. The façade was originally of brick and stone, with second-floor balconies (now closed in). Founded in 1890, the Institute was dedicated to the professional development of citizen Militia Officers, responsible for leading the under-funded Militia units that formed the bulk of the Canadian Army. It combined a place of collegiality with library, museum, and lecture facilities. Granted a "Royal" prefix in 1948, its membership now includes serving and retired officers, as well as interested civilians. The Royal Canadian Military Institute continues to be one of Canada's leading voices concerned with issues of defence, diplomacy, and peace.

More
Conflict

Here are the visitors' comments for this page.

> Posted June 4, 2008
This building is a private members' club, but has opened during Doors Open in May, some years. It contains a magnificent library of military history, some of whose volumes have sadly gone missing over the years. Now they keep close eye on each book, map, etc. The basement holds a museum of pistols and rifles. Its medal collection is outstanding, and includes those from the War of 1812, the Rebellion of 1837, and foreign wars. A military art collection includes sculptures, paintings, and miniature soldiers. Of interest is a First World War-era Canadian flag (whose badge is comprised of nine provincial shields) annotated with campaigns it saw.

Here's where you can send me a comment for this page.

Note: Your email address will be posted at the end of your comment so others can respond to you unless you request otherwise.

Note: Comments are moderated. Yours will appear on this page within 24 hours (usually much sooner).

Note: As soon as I have posted your comment, a reply to your email will be sent informing you.

To send me your comment, click [email protected].

Thanks
Webmaster

Note: If you wish to send me a personal email, click here.