Toronto 
The Thomas Foster Memorial in Uxbridge is a testament to the accomplishments of Thomas Foster.
Perched on a hill, the Thomas Foster Memorial is a captivating sight, easily visible from different directions.
Inspired by the iconic Taj Mahal near Agra, India, which was built as a mausoleum, Foster, who was an MP and Mayor of Toronto, approached the Toronto architectural firm of Craig and Madill to create a similar structure for himself, his wife, and daughter Ruby. The cost of the memorial, intended for community use as well, ended up being twice the original estimate, reflecting Foster’s determination to create a lasting legacy.
The design incorporates elements of Byzantine architecture, representing the early Christian Church, resulting in a truly unique and original structure, which opened in 1936.
Thomas Foster Memorial Architecture:
The Thomas Foster Memorial is an architectural marvel with a broad, octagonal, terraced base measuring 87 feet by 92 feet. The structure itself is 55 feet wide and 60 feet long. It features a pyramid-inspired design, with stages of vertical wall, a semi-dome drum, and a central dome adorned with a gilded finial. The masonry is made of variegated Indiana limestone, intricately carved at the windows and cornice lines.
The entrance is marked by a portico resting on three arches, supported by monolithic columns with exquisite incised carvings. Bronze-capped weighted buttresses reinforce the flanks, and the roof surfaces are copper tile.
Inside, the hand-painted, fired, and leaded glass windows by Yvonne Williams fill the space with vibrant, harmonious colours. The floors are richly adorned with symbolic terrazzo and marble mosaics, including a central motif of a River of Death, water lilies, and lily pads. The interior also features marble screens, columns of various Italian marble, and a marble altar approached by three travertine steps.
Surrounding the interior are dado and window reveals of Bois-Jourdain gray marble with gold mosaic inlays. Glass mosaics in floral and geometric designs adorn the pediments, soffits, and returns of the arches, while a magnificent azure-blue acoustic ceiling enhances the ambiance.
The drum of the dome showcases twelve stained glass windows, with the eastern window taking the form of a gold cross on a rich blue ground. Encircling the dome is an inscription in gold lettering on a mosaic field, conveying the message of gaining a new life, glorious and eternal.
Things to Do at Thomas Foster Memorial:
Beyond its architectural significance, the Thomas Foster Memorial offers a range of activities for visitors.
Tours: The memorial is open for tours from May to September, with tours available by appointment. Contact 905-640-3966 or beverlynortheast@gmail.com to arrange a tour appointment during May, June, or September.
During July and August, the memorial is open for tours Wednesday to Sunday, except on the third Sunday of July, when it is open only from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm. The memorial is also open on Canada Day (July 1st) and & Civic Day (Monday, August 3).
For bus tours and group visits, it is advised to make arrangements in advance by calling 905-640-3966 or emailing beverlynortheast@gmail.com.
The admission fee is $10 per person ($8 for seniors), offering affordable access to this architectural gem.
Concerts: Every Friday from May to September, “Friday’s At The Foster” presents an evening of blues & jazz concerts.
Admission is by donation at the door for the concerts, which take place from 7:30 pm – 8:30 pm.
Meditation Sessions: Additionally, the memorial hosts meditation sessions once a month, facilitated by Linda Lee Purvis, where attendees can experience deep relaxation through the resonant tones of Quartz Crystal Singing Bowls and Crystal Harp.
Arrive between 7:00 and 7:25 pm for sign-in, as late admittance is prohibited. Contact beverlynortheast@gmail.com or 905-640-3966 to register. Bring a yoga mat, blanket, or towel for your comfort during the session.
Thomas Foster Memorial is located at 9499 Durham Regional Rd 1, Uxbridge.
