6 fascinating photos of historic moments from Toronto’s past

It’s the first week of September, and there’s plenty happening in the city to make us forget that summer is over. To celebrate the month, we’re looking back on some of the most interesting historic moments of Toronto’s September past, from the first Terry Fox Run to the pioneering swimmer who braved Lake Ontario.

The home run heard around the world

Historic photo of Babe Ruth before his first professional home run in Toronto

On Sept. 5, 1914, baseball legend Babe Ruthย achieved his first professional home run atย Hanlanโ€™s Point Stadium on the Toronto Islands,ย marking the beginning of an iconic sports career.

The beginnings of prohibition

On Sept. 16, 1916, the Ontario Temperance Actย commenced, initiating a period of alcoholย prohibition in the province and shaping socialย attitudes toward alcohol consumption.

The record-breaking swimmer

Historic photo of Toronto swimmer Marilyn Bell, who swam across Lake Ontario

On Sept. 9, 1954, Marilyn Bell’s pioneering swimย across Lake Ontario cemented her reputation asย the first to accomplish the feat, leaving anย indelible mark on open water swimming.

The hair-raising opening of the Science Centre

On Sept. 26, 1969, the Ontario Scienceย Centre opened its doors, igniting curiosity andย education through its interactive exhibits andย engaging experiences.

The first Terry Fox Run

Historic photo of the first Terry Fox run

The first Terry Fox Run took place on Sept. 13,ย 1981, inaugurating a tradition of global fundraisingย for cancer research in memory of Terry Fox’sย inspiring journey.

The history-making governor general

On Sept. 27, 2005, a historic momentย unfolded as Michaรซlle Jean was inaugurated asย Canada’s inaugural Black governor general,ย exemplifying progress toward inclusivity.

For amazing events happening in Toronto this month, click here.ย 

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