Remembering Canada's Military History — 16 Surprisingly Different Memorials in Four Blocks
Canada's National War Memorial, Confederation Sq.
Along Elgin St. and the canal between Wellington and Lisgar Sts., there are a surprising number of memorials to the people who have fought in wars on behalf of Canada, or what became Canada. Some of these memorials are very well known, such as the National War Memorial (National Cenotaph). Others are largely forgotten. They all speak to how Canada, a peaceful nation, was shaped by conflict. They don't brag of the glory of war, but are most often dedicated to remembrance of loss. They speak of our desire that we never forget those who have sacrificed, and our hope that Canada remains a force for peace in the world.
This tour will introduce you to sixteen of these memorials. Even the ones you think you know have some surprises in store for you. As well as a bit of background for each, we'll talk about the artists who created them and about the society that installed them. We'll also consider how the meanings of these memorials may have changed over timie, and what they tell us today that may be different from what people who conceived, created, and installed them may have intended.
Veterans and the families of veterans are invited to bring stories of their experiences to share.
