Scarborough’s unique architectural style and the first planned town city in all of North America are 50 years old. Designed by Japanese-Canadian architect Raymond Moriyama, the Scarborough Civic Center opened 50 years ago today on June 29, 1973 at 150 Borough Dr. The inauguration ceremony was attended by the late Queen Elizabeth II.
Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow, Deputy Mayor Jennifer McKelvey, Scarborough Councilors Michael Thomson, Nick Mantus and Paul Ainslie gathered at the Civic Center near Ellesmere and Brimley Road to mark the 50th anniversary.
In an Oct. 1 news release, Mayor Olivia Chow said the Scarborough Civic Center has witnessed many memorable events over the past 50 years. These events shaped the history of Scarborough and Toronto. Even today the Civic Center continues to fulfill its purpose as a meeting venue. As we celebrate the anniversary, I look forward to many more years of the space being a destination for community gathering and entertainment.
Elder Kat Krieger, partner of Moriyama Teshima Architects, Elder Chris Leonard and Diarmuid Nash also attended the anniversary event. Scarborough-based artist and researcher and architect Esmond Lee was the Master of Ceremonies.
The event is commemorated by releasing new fish into the existing pond. The pond was built in its courtyard when the structure was first opened. A poem by Toronto poet and writer Lillian Allen was also read at the event.
The program also included music, sports events and architectural tours. In addition, the Scarborough sign was installed in Albert Campbell Square. Albert Campbell was Scarborough’s first mayor. Scarborough Civic Center was built under his leadership.
