This photograph captures a powerhouse group of politicians walking through the grounds of the Canadian National Exhibition in the early 1930s. Established in 1879, the Exhibition was more than 50 years old by this time, and was firmly established as one of the great summer traditions in Toronto.

Second from left is Richard Bedford Bennett, then Canada’s Prime Minister, appointed on August 7th 1930. Serving his country until October 1935, Bennett’s notable achievements as Prime Minister included the establishment of the Bank of Canada, the Canadian Wheat Board, and the Canadian Broadcasting Commission.
Fifth from the left is noted statesman, Sir William Mulock. Mulock was a man of many hats, holding titles as jurist, Liberal in the House of Commons, and Postmaster General. At this time, Mulock was Chief Justice of Ontario (1923-1936) and Chancellor of the University of Toronto (1924-1944).
Third from the right is the Honorable George S. Henry. A farmer early in his life, Henry was elected to the York Township council, then to the Legislative Council in 1913 as a Conservative member for East York. Soon after, Henry became Minister of Agriculture and Minister of Public Works and Highways. He was elected Premier of Ontario in December, 1930 leading up to 1934.
Third from the left was William Stewart. Born in Toronto in 1889, Stewart attended Ryerson Public School and later became alderman for Toronto’s Ward 5 from 1924 to 1930. In 1930, Stewart was elected Mayor of Toronto, a position he held until 1934. During his term, Stewart initiated programs to assist the poor during the Depression, restored Fort York, and oversaw the centennial celebrations in 1934.
Bennett, Henry and Stewart all would end their terms around the same time, when a new group of politicians led Toronto and the country through the remainder of the Depression.


Many thanks to both Gary Switzer of MOD Developments and Maya Bilbao for putting together the photos and research.