In pictures: the history of the CNE

WATCH ABOVE: The CNE is a treasure trove of sights and sounds and history! We visit a few of the most treasured areas of the EX grounds with Toronto historian, Bruce Bell.

TORONTO – The Canadian National Exhibition is a long standing tradition in Toronto. It’s been around for 137 years. Lets take a look at what it was like throughout the years.

The iconic Prince’s Gate stands at the entrance to the fair. The gates were built in 1927 to commemorate Canada’s 60th birthday.

The Automotive Building was built in 1929.  Over the years, the auto show at the Ex presented a first look at many new models of cars such as Volkswagons and Porsches.

Many bands and singers have performed at the famous Bandshell since it was built in 1937.  Some notable acts include Louis Armstrong and Joni Mitchell.

In the midway of the CNE, rides only started to show up in the 1930’s. The Mighty Flyer was a wooden roller coaster that was built in 1953 by Conklin Shows and lasted until the 1990’s.

People young and old flocked to the Ex to be a part of it.

For more old pictures, you can check out the interactive display at cneheritage.com.