Queen’s Park North has been a fave spot in the heart of our city since 1860. Why?
- Circular pathways that branch from Edward VII’s Statue at the North End of the park
- Picnic Tables and Benches
- Home to Our Largest Oak Trees (Excluding Ravines)
- Accessible Wheelchair entrances and parking lots
- 48th Highlanders of Canada Memorial
- 1885 Northwest Rebellion Monument
- Prominent Canadian Figures commemorated throughout the park
Originally maintained by the University of Toronto, the land was leased to the city in 1858 (for 999 years). The park was originally dedicated in 1860 by Edward, Prince of Wales (later King Edward VII).
In recent years, the park shows the need for some TLC.
Enter the Weston Family with $50 Million
Hilary Weston, former Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, holds her own personal connection to the park. Stating she often looked out at the park from her office, she appreciated its natural beauty and history.
When she witnessed the park’s declining condition (overgrown grass, neglected fountains, litter) she was motivated to do something about it.
Any Other Contributors to the Revitalization?
Yes! University of Toronto, Gardiner Museum, Royal Conservatory of Music and Royal Ontario Museum are just some of the collaborators.
What Additions Can We Look Forward To?
The family’s $50 million donation, which will support infrastructure upgrades, long-term programming and maintenance, will also add:
- New pathways, landscaping, preservation of the park’s historic tree canopy
- New food services, public washrooms, café
- Arts and cultural programming, partnering with Gardiner Museum, Royal Conservatory of Music and the ROM
- Indigenous placekeeping, promoting reconciliation
- Outdoor skating rink
When Will Queen’s Park North See These Improvements?
Summer of 2026 should see construction crews breaking ground!
The Weston Family’s Past Philanthropy
The Weston family has a long history of charitable work dating back to 1958 that includes contributions to:
- Grange Park
- Evergreen Brickworks
- Garrison Common (Fort York)
- The Meadoway
- Weston Family Parks Challenge
Where Did the Weston’s Corporate Career Begin?
- George Weston purchased a bread route back in 1882
- Expanded to biscuits, cookies and cakes all across Ontario
- Garfield (son) took the company public in 1928
- Many acquisitions fall under the Weston Corporation such as Loblaws, Ace Bakery and National Tea Co.
