Back in 1909 the creation of Thunder Bay's "Publicity Pagoda" was part of a campaign to promote the city to tourists. We're re-inventing the Waterfront for that same reason today, and I think this is the perfect time to bring the polka dots back.
In 1986, the building was designated a National Historic Site. The Ontario Heritage Trust secured a heritage easement to conserve the building in 1992. That's fantastic, but something is missing... the magic is gone...
Speak up, Thunder Bay! Put the polka dots back on the Pagoda!
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Polka Dot History: ".... first added as a prank in 1961, the mischeif was repeated in 1981 by the mayor, the M.P.P. and the M.P. in the name of 'local tradition'. Hence the Pagoda with it's eye-catching charm has itself become a tourist attraction."
- Society for the Study of Architecture in Canada Bulletin, '1909 to 1984: ATTRACTING ATTENTION WITH A SINGLE BUILDING', Patricia Vervoort
For more information on the Pagoda's history:
www.heritagetrust.on.ca
http://www.thunderbay.ca/Visiting/Tips_for_Travellers/visitor_services.htm
http://www.thunderbay.ca/Assets/Living/Heritage/docs/Pagoda.pdf
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Pagoda Photo - Courtesy of Jordan L. Smith collection, What Makes The Pie Shops Tick?