Like many Ontario clubs, Cosburn saw declining membership in the 1990s and 2000s. That trend reversed in the 2010s, marking the start of steady growth, briefly interrupted by the early years of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

In 2011, Cosburn welcomed the Toronto Rainbowlers, whose Wednesday-night LGBT jitney brought new energy and new members to the greens. Today, Rainbowlers make up almost a third of the club. and the group has attracted the interest and support of the OLBA as a model for bringing diversity to the sport.

The club incorporated as a not-for-profit in 2023, strengthening governance and opening new opportunities for sustainability. In 2024, Cosburn became the largest lawn bowling club in Ontario.

As we approach our centennial in 2029, Cosburn is a lively, diverse community—grounded in tradition, powered by volunteers, and looking confidently toward its second century.

Founded in 1929, Cosburn Park Lawn Bowling Club began as a small neighbourhood effort near Cosburn and Coxwell Avenues, with the support of East York Township Council. Women’s and men’s groups initially operated separately, with Mrs. Grant Jack serving as the first female president and Reeve R.M. Leslie leading the men’s group. The club’s first pre-season dinner and dance followed in May 1930, at R.H. McGregor School.

There was no clubhouse for several years, just a shed on the current site, with no heat or amenities. Membership grew steadily—63 members by 1939, 115 by 1948—and so did ambition. Members built a clubhouse in 1937, added a verandah in 1952—paid for by winter fundraisers—and in 1971 the Borough of East York renovated the building into the clubhouse we know today.

Like many Ontario clubs, Cosburn saw declining membership in the 1990s and 2000s. That trend reversed in the 2010s, marking the start of steady growth, briefly interrupted by the early years of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

In 2011, Cosburn welcomed the Toronto Rainbowlers, whose Wednesday-night LGBT jitney brought new energy and new members to the greens. Today, Rainbowlers make up almost a third of the club. and the group has attracted the interest and support of the OLBA as a model for bringing diversity to the sport.

The club incorporated as a not-for-profit in 2023, strengthening governance and opening new opportunities for sustainability. In 2024, Cosburn became the largest lawn bowling club in Ontario.

As we approach our centennial in 2029, Cosburn is a lively, diverse community—grounded in tradition, powered by volunteers, and looking confidently toward its second century.