Date: 1930

Origin: CNE Archives

Located west of the Manufacturer’s Building (where the Better Living Centre now sits), the Shriners’ Peace Memorial was designed by Charles Keck and consists of a bronze monument set on a circular stone base. A winged figure, the Goddess of Peace, stands with her arms upraised and holds aloft two olive branches. The figure is elevated on a globe of the world, which is supported by two sphinxes and marked by a commemorative plaque. The monument is ringed by a fountain that was added in 1958. The Shriners’ Peace Memorial was dedicated in June 1930 during a convention of the Ancient Arabic Order of the Nobles of the Mystic Shrine (Shriners) to commemorate nearly a century of peaceful relations between Canada and the United States. The monument is located on the site where American troops landed during the War of 1812. As a work of art, the Shriners’ Peace Memorial adds a distinctive touch to the southern edge of the CNE grounds while also complimenting the architectural design of CNE buildings in the immediate vicinity.

Source: Toronto Historical Board, “Property Summary Research,” 1992.