Exhibition Stadium
History
Exhibition Stadium, often referred to as "Exhibition Place Stadium," was a multi-purpose stadium located in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. It was situated on the grounds of Exhibition Place, a large fairground and exhibition complex along the northern shore of Lake Ontario. The stadium was originally constructed in 1959 and underwent several expansions and renovations throughout its history to accommodate various sports and entertainment events.
The origins of Exhibition Stadium can be traced back to the need for a larger venue to host events during the Canadian National Exhibition (CNE), an annual fair that began in 1879. The stadium was built to replace the older Exhibition Grounds, which had become inadequate for the growing number of visitors and events. Over the years, Exhibition Stadium became an iconic venue for sports and concerts, playing a significant role in Toronto's cultural and sporting landscape.
Architecture and Design
Exhibition Stadium was designed as a multi-purpose facility capable of hosting a wide range of events, including baseball, football, soccer, and concerts. The stadium's architecture was characterized by its open-air design, with a grandstand that provided seating for approximately 54,000 spectators at its peak. The seating arrangement was primarily composed of bleachers and benches, which were typical of stadiums built during that era.
The field dimensions and layout were adaptable, allowing for quick transitions between different sports. For baseball games, the stadium featured a dirt infield and a natural grass outfield, while for football and soccer, the field was reconfigured to accommodate the respective playing surfaces. The stadium's versatility made it a popular choice for hosting major events, despite its relatively simple design.
Major Events and Tenants
Exhibition Stadium was home to several professional sports teams throughout its history. The most notable tenant was the Toronto Blue Jays, a Major League Baseball (MLB) team that played its home games at the stadium from its inception in 1977 until 1989. The Blue Jays' tenure at Exhibition Stadium was marked by several memorable moments, including their first game on April 7, 1977, and their first division title in 1985.
In addition to baseball, the stadium also hosted the Toronto Argonauts, a Canadian Football League (CFL) team, from 1959 to 1988. The Argonauts' presence at Exhibition Stadium contributed to the venue's reputation as a premier location for Canadian football. The stadium was the site of several Grey Cup games, the championship of the CFL, further cementing its place in Canadian sports history.
Exhibition Stadium also served as a venue for international soccer matches, including games featuring the Canadian national team and various club teams from around the world. The stadium's capacity and location made it an attractive choice for hosting large-scale sporting events.
Concerts and Cultural Impact
Beyond sports, Exhibition Stadium was a popular venue for concerts and cultural events. Its large seating capacity and open-air design made it ideal for hosting major music acts. Some of the most famous artists and bands of the 20th century performed at Exhibition Stadium, including The Rolling Stones, Pink Floyd, and David Bowie. These concerts attracted tens of thousands of fans and contributed to the stadium's reputation as a key cultural venue in Toronto.
The stadium also hosted various community events, festivals, and exhibitions, reflecting its role as a central hub for entertainment and culture in the city. Its location within Exhibition Place allowed it to be easily integrated into the activities of the Canadian National Exhibition, further enhancing its significance in Toronto's cultural landscape.
Challenges and Criticisms
Despite its popularity, Exhibition Stadium faced several challenges and criticisms throughout its history. One of the primary issues was its open-air design, which exposed spectators and players to the elements. Toronto's unpredictable weather, particularly during the early spring and late fall, often led to uncomfortable conditions for both fans and athletes. This was especially problematic for baseball games, where rainouts and cold temperatures were common.
The stadium's seating arrangement and sightlines were also criticized. The use of bleachers and benches, while practical for accommodating large crowds, often resulted in limited comfort for spectators. Additionally, the multi-purpose design meant that some seats had obstructed views, particularly during baseball games when the field configuration was less than ideal.
These challenges, coupled with the aging infrastructure of the stadium, eventually led to calls for a new, modern facility. The construction of the SkyDome (now known as the Rogers Centre) in 1989 addressed many of these issues, providing a state-of-the-art venue with a retractable roof and improved amenities.
Demolition and Legacy
Exhibition Stadium was officially closed in 1989, following the opening of the SkyDome. The stadium was demolished in 1999, marking the end of an era in Toronto's sports and entertainment history. Despite its demolition, Exhibition Stadium left a lasting legacy on the city and its residents.
The stadium's role in the development of professional sports in Toronto cannot be understated. It was the birthplace of the Toronto Blue Jays and played a crucial part in the growth of Canadian football. The memories created at Exhibition Stadium, from thrilling sports moments to iconic concerts, continue to resonate with those who experienced them.
Today, the site of the former Exhibition Stadium is part of the larger Exhibition Place complex, which remains a vibrant center for events and activities in Toronto. The legacy of Exhibition Stadium lives on through the memories of those who attended events there and the impact it had on the city's cultural and sporting landscape.