|
|
Casa Loma
Sir Henry Pellatt's Vision"Devant Si Je Puis" the Pellatt family motto, translates to "Forward If I Can" is a fitting tribute to the legacy of Sir Henry Pellatt. He is responsible for building one of the most famous landmarks in Toronto. The Castle on the Hill or Casa Loma as it is more commonly known is a breathtaking feat of architectural splendor and interior design created in the Roaring Twenties. Thanks to some shrewd business ventures in 1911 Sir Henry embarked on his ambitious plan to build a castle in the heart of Toronto.
E. J. Lennox, a noted Canadian architect, was commissioned by Sir Henry to realize his dream. The name Casa Loma was given to the land by the previous owners and Sir Henry kept the name. At a cost of over three and a half million dollars and in a time frame of three years Casa Loma was completed. Sir Henry's European inspired themes are evident throughout the decor of the castle. The Windsor Room was named in an unrealized hope that members of the Royal Family of England would visit Sir Henry at Casa Loma.
Sir Henry was a noted philanthropist and a staunch supporter of the Queen's Own Rifles. In fact it was his military service that garnered Henry Pellatt his knighthood in 1905. He was a trustee of Trinity College, supported Grace Hospital, and St. John's Ambulance Brigade of Canada. Lady Pellatt was equally generous with her time and talents most notably with the Girl Guides of Canada. Sir Henry's life as King of his Castle was short-lived. Unfortunately his business acumen and success came to an end and he had little choice but to sell his assets. By 1924 the Pellatt family had moved out of Casa Loma. In 1925 William Sparling proposed turning the Castle into a luxury hotel. He finished the Great Hall and the Billiard Room. The hotel plan did not work. The city of Toronto took possession of Casa Loma because of outstanding back taxes.
Visitors are encouraged to tour Casa Loma at their own pace and have the option to do so with accompanying tape recorders in a multitude of languages that provide a history of the beautiful landmark. Sleeping Beauty's Enchanted CastleNovember 22, 2003 until January 4th, 2004
An interactive musical comedy rendition of the classic tale of 'Sleeping Beauty' will be presented at Casa Loma during the holiday season. The audience is encouraged to participate during the presentation to help break the spell and wake the Sleeping Princess. In the Conservatory Jolly Jesters will present 'The Twelve Days of Christmas' and audience participation is more than welcome. Children will enjoy the Prince and Princess Photo Fantasy in the Billiard Room. Santa Claus will be in Toronto at Casa Loma helping the castle to celebrate with it's annual seasonal program this year focusing on Sleeping Beauty. Events will be fun for children of all ages - bring parents, grandparents or others to enjoy this historic monument in the heart of Toronto and it's wonderful homage to the holiday season. Santa is only able to visit until December 24th, as the jolly fellow has other plans for that evening and then Kris Kringle will take a well deserved rest in his spectacular home at the North Pole. |
|
