Canada First Movement Historical Plaque

Toronto's Historical Plaques

Learn a little of Toronto's history as told through its plaques.

The "Canada First" Movement

Photos by Alan L Brown - March 2004

This structure, at 303 Bay Street, has an Archaeological and Historic Sites Board plaque attached to the wall beside the front door. Here's what it says:

Originating in Ottawa, in 1868, with informal meetings of a few youthful patriots, 'Canada First' was the name and slogan of a movement to promote nationalist sentiment. Its founding members were Charles Mair, Henry Morgan, William Foster, G.T. Denison and R.G. Haliburton. Two years later the movement created the North-West Emigration Aid Society to encourage British immigration. In 1874 the group, now centred in Toronto, established "The Nation", a weekly journal, entered politics as the Canadian National Association, and founded the National Club as its rallying place. By then 'Canada First' had the support of such influential figures as Edward Blake and Goldwin Smith. Though the movement's political influence soon waned, its expression of a popular Canadian ideal had enduring significance.

Location Co-ordinates: 43.649499 -79.380480

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Posted Monday, February 16, 2009
I have a copy of a Canada First paper that was printed in Montreal, August 26, 1882. It is in very poor condition as it is printed on what appears to be very fragile black paper with white print. It is labeled Edition one, volume 32. Can you please provide me with some information about my paper.
Thanks Bruce

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