Strolling about the neighborhood of the Ontario Legislative Building, Toronto, I came across a pretty college campus. This is Victoria University (known as Victoria College), a beautiful and historic school.
Not a large campus, it’s a pleasant place to explore on foot — to enjoy the architecture and some of its interesting art.
It wasn’t until later than I learned a little more about the place. Victoria University was founded in 1836 by royal charter from King William IV. Victoria became part of the University of Toronto in 1890. It consists of Victoria College, an arts and science college, and Emmanuel College, a theological school associated with the United Church of Canada.
Victoria is one of the oldest schools in Canada. The College has a distinguished reputation for academic excellence and innovation. Its alumni include some of Canada’s best known citizens, several of whom are recognized in banners and artwork around the college. These include:
Lester B. Pearson, Prime Minister and Nobel Laureate….
Arthur Schawlow, Nobel Laureate and co-inventor of the laser….
Filmmaker Norman Jewison….
Literary critic and scholar Northrop Frye has not only a banner, but a permanent bench
Some other alumni whose names you might recognize include actor Donald Sutherland, author Margaret Atwood, and artist Robert Bateman.
