London Arena

The London Arena opened its doors in 1923, originally designed for hockey it underwent a renovation in 1941 making it the only combination ice arena, convention hall, roller arena and ballroom of its size in Canada. A 14,000 square foot portable hardwood floor, laid over ice making equipment, made dancing for 5,000 people possible. Over the decades a large assortment of big names played here such as Glenn Miller, Guy Lombardo, Harry James, Lionel Hampton, Count Basie, Duke Ellington, Stan Kenton, Nat King Cole, Sarah Vaughan, George Kirby, Gene Autry, Johnny Cash and Alice Cooper. Professional wrestling was also popular at the arena with names like Whipper Billy Watson, Andre The Giant and Angelo Mosca. Joe McManus purchased the arena in 1963 for $75,000 and completed $60,000 in renovations. In 1976 the Ministry of Labour performed inspections on arenas throughout Ontario and as many as 40% were deemed unsafe. The London Arena was included in this sweep and was deemed structurally unsafe under certain wind and snow conditions which forced it to close its doors on October 15, 1976.

The London Arena as it appeared just before Joe McManus purchased it in 1963.

We are searching for a photograph of the building after the renovations. If you can help please contact us.