An Introduction to Toronto's Union Station

Toronto's Union Station is a primary hub for local, provincial, and international travel. The central station is not only a transportation junction but also a historical monument and a symbol of the city's growth and urban evolution. Let's delve into its rich history, including when and why it was built and how it has evolved over the years.

Toronto's Union Station: Casting a Glance Back in Time

There had been two previous Union Stations before the current one, but Toronto's present-day Union Station opened its doors for the first time on August 6, 1927. However, its construction began a decade before, in 1914, just as World War I was commencing. The war delayed its completion until 1920, and full service didn't commence until 1927, making Union Station as we know it today nearly a century old.

The Need for Union Station

Increased train traffic in the late 1800s necessitated a larger station, replacing the existing one that existed since 1873. As Toronto's population was multiplying, the requisite infrastructure to support this swelling population also grew. The old station could not accommodate the increasing volume of passenger service, and thus, the grand idea of building a new Union Station was conceived.

Architectural Brilliance

The architectural design of Union Station is a perfect instance of beaux-arts architecture. It exhibits various styles such as neoclassicism, integrating symmetry, stateliness, and grandeur while creating a dramatic effect. The credit for this magnificent design goes to the Montreal architecture firm G.A. Ross and R.H. McDonald, along with Hugh Jones of the CPR and John M. Lyle of Toronto.

Union Station's Centennial Hall

One of Union Station's most impressive features is the Great Hall, also known as the Centennial Hall. The ceiling stands 88 feet high, and its five-story clerestory windows fill the space with an abundance of natural light. It served as the departure area during the station's earlier years, and it's still in use today, remaining a testimonial to the station's former glory.

The station’s Influence on Toronto

The station's influence on the city's growth and evolution cannot be overstated. As the primary transportation hub, it helped establish Toronto as an economic powerhouse in Canada. It made travel more accessible and paved the way for Toronto's urban expansion.

Additions and Renovations

Through the years, Union Station has undergone several upgrades to cater to the changing demands of travel and transportation. The most significant overhaul took place in the 1970s with the introduction of the GO Transit concourses. In 2000, a revitalization project was initiated to restore the station's original architectural features while adding contemporary elements to the station structure.

Union Station Today

Today, Union Station remains a busy hub, handling an estimated 300,000 passengers daily. It's not only a transportation hub; it's a shopping and culinary destination, with dozens of restaurants, shops, and a bustling, newly-renovated food court.

Conclusion: Union Station - A Symbol of a Growing City

Almost a century old, Union Station has witnessed Toronto's remarkable urban growth from a small town to Canada's most populous city. This significant symbol of Toronto's past, while continuing to serve its present, carries a timeless charm that enchants its visitors. Union Station will always be an integral thread in Toronto's ever-evolving urban tapestry.