The Princess Gate is actually The Princes’ gate; what I thought was a she is actually two he’s. Turns out I’ve been saying it wrong my entire life because the iconic gates that guard the eastern entrance into Exhibition Place were named in honor of Prince Edward and Prince George.
On August 30, the Princes Gate turns 95, and I want to celebrate this historic Toronto Landmark by telling you a little more about it.
The Winged Victory standing atop the gate is a symbolic guide, leading Exhibition Place Canada into the future. In her lowered hand is a single maple leaf, a symbol of our Canadian pride. Two pairs of identical figures flank the Winged Victory on either side of the central arch.
One pair holds a cornucopia, representing the harvest fruits, and the other has beehives, representing hard work and prosperity.
The sculptures on the pylons are equally symbolic. The female figure has a sheaf of grain to represent farming, while the male one rests his left hand on a wheel, and a set of drawings draped across his knees signifies industry.
I love the history, the use of symbolism, and the details crafted into the columns, and yes, I loved the history channel back when it had actual history programs.
Sculptured by Charles D. McKechnie, these figures have looked down on some of the most memorable events in Canadian history. From returning soldiers and Victory Parades to Indy cars, the CNE and everything in between.
Here’s to another 95 years standing guard over our great city
Author: Jason Koop is a writer, influencer, fan of Canadian event experiences, and VP of Business Development with Canadian Special Events. After more than 15 years in the apparel industry managing accounts for some of the world’s largest designers like Calvin Klein, Tommy Hilfiger, and Vanity Fair Corp, Jason was ready for a change. Combining his relationship-building skills with his marketing background and his new love for events, he has built the largest following of corporate event professionals in Canada for CSE and is helping to lead the brand to a new level of success.