Explore some of Thunder Bay History
THUNDER BAY – LIVING – On Saturday, September 6th, more than a dozen historically, architecturally and culturally significant sites in Thunder Bay will open their doors to the public during Doors Open Thunder Bay. “Some of the buildings and landmarks included in this year’s Doors Open event are public, and are owned by the City of Thunder Bay or other orders of government,” said Pamela Cain, Heritage Researcher. “However, many are owned by private citizens or companies. We truly appreciate their participation in Doors Open, and their willingness to open their doors to the citizens of Thunder Bay.”
The purpose of the event, which co-ordinated by the Heritage Advisory Committee of the City of Thunder Bay, is to spark the interest of both residents and visitors in Thunder Bay’s rich cultural heritage.There is actually, as you explore our city, a lot of history in Thunder Bay. Many older buildings across the city have their own history behind them. The Big Boreal Adventure offers a self directed walking tour of Thunder Bay as well.
Big Boreal Adventure – Tour Thunder Bay
“Thunder Bay has a rich and fascinating history, which many residents may not be entirely aware of,” said Andrew Cotter, Chair – Heritage Advisory Committee. “This unique event offers an in-depth look at that history by providing special access to some of our City’s most-significant landmarks and buildings. I hope that our residents will take advantage of this exciting and educational opportunity.”
Open Doors Thunder Bay will run from 10 am to 4 pm on Saturday, and will feature 17 significant Thunder Bay locations:
- Waverley Park- Hogarth Fountain
- Waverley Park Cenotaph
- Elizabeth Smellie Ontario Historical Plaque
- Afganistan Monument
- O’ Kelly (Thunder Bay) Armoury and Thunder Bay Military Museum
- Shuniah Masonic Hall
- St. Paul’s United Church
- St. John the Evangelist Church
- HMCS Griffon
- Superior Lofts/Neelin Building
- The Whalen Building
- Prince Arthur Hotel
- Thunder Bay Indian Friendship Centre
- Thunder Bay City Archives
- Thunder Bay City Hall Cenotaph
- Northwestern Sports Hall of Fame
- Caledonia Building
- Ukrainian Catholic Cemetery
- Mountain View Cemetery
- Mount McKay Monument
Historical information regarding the individual heritages sites of Thunder Bay will be available at each site as well as on the City of Thunder Bay website.
For locations and more information about these sites and the Doors Open event go to Doors Open Thunder Bay, or call 625-3197.
There are also many other historical buildings you will likely see as you tour the area.
St. Andrews Church
The Chapple Building
The James Whalen at Kam River Park
King’s Park in the North Ward
