In the heart of Downtown St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, stands a monument that is both a tribute to bravery and a poignant reminder of sacrifice. The National War Memorial, an imposing and intricate structure, captures the essence of Newfoundland's military history, particularly its involvement in World War I. This memorial, the most elaborate of its kind in the province, is not just a landmark but a symbol of the island's enduring spirit and gratitude towards its fallen heroes.
The National War Memorial was erected at King's Beach on Water Street, a site of historical importance where Sir Humphrey Gilbert claimed Newfoundland for England in 1583. The memorial was formally unveiled on Memorial Day, July 1, 1924, by Field Marshal Douglas Haig, 1st Earl Haig. This date is particularly significant as it marks the anniversary of the Battle of the Somme, a harrowing event for the Royal Newfoundland Regiment. On July 1, 1916, the regiment faced devastating losses at Beaumont-Hamel, with 86 percent of its men either killed, missing, or injured within a mere 30 minutes of combat. The next morning, only 68 out of 800 men answered the roll call. This tragic event underscored the need for a memorial to honor those who had made the ultimate sacrifice.
The design of the National War Memorial is both grand and symbolic. It features a semi-circular layout with a graduated plateau that rises from the entrance stairway on Water Street to the cenotaph on Duckworth Street. The site offers a panoramic view of the harbor, through which all soldiers departed for Europe during World War I, adding a layer of poignancy to the memorial's location.
The five bronze figures adorning the memorial were designed by English sculptors Ferdinand Victor Blundstone and Gilbert Bayes and cast by E.J. Parlanti in London. These figures represent various facets of Newfoundland's involvement in the war. At the top of the central pedestal stands a woman holding a torch in her left hand and a sword in her right, symbolizing readiness and vigilance. The west wing features a sailor holding a spyglass, representing the Newfoundland Royal Naval Reserve, while the east wing showcases a soldier in full battle gear, symbolizing the Royal Newfoundland Regiment.
On the lower pedestal, two more figures stand out: a fisherman in oilskins and Wellington boots, and a lumberman with an axe slung over his shoulder. These figures symbolize the Newfoundlanders who served with the Merchant Marine and the Forestry Corps. Above them, a granite cross signifies the sacred nature of the memorial. Below, a bronze plaque declares that the memorial was erected by a grateful people to honor its war dead. Additional plaques commemorate Newfoundlanders who died in World War II, the Korean War, and the War in Afghanistan.
On July 1, 1924, a crowd of 20,000 people, representing about 10 percent of the island's population at the time, gathered for the unveiling of the National War Memorial. Field Marshal Earl Douglas Haig, the former commander of the British Expeditionary Forces, had the honor of unveiling the monument. The warm July day saw a significant turnout, reflecting the deep respect and gratitude the people of Newfoundland held for their fallen heroes.
In preparation for its centennial, the National War Memorial underwent a major $6.1 million restoration. This refurbishment brought the sculptures back to their original state and added new accessible walkways and stairs. A significant addition during this restoration was the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, making Canada one of the few countries with two such tombs. The first Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is located at the National War Memorial in Ottawa, representing a Canadian soldier from the Battle of Vimy Ridge. Since Newfoundland did not participate in that battle, the Commonwealth War Graves Commission granted permission for a second tomb to be established in St. John's.
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in St. John's was created to represent all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians who served and sacrificed. The remains of an unknown soldier, killed at Beaumont-Hamel, were repatriated and entombed at the foot of the memorial on July 1, 2024. The ceremony was attended by Canada's Governor General, the Prime Minister, and the Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador. Princess Anne, the colonel-in-chief of the Royal Newfoundland Regiment, was also expected to attend but had to cancel due to an injury. The ceremony was a solemn and dignified event, with Premier Furey standing in as the ceremonial next of kin for the soldier.
The National War Memorial is the site of several annual ceremonies that commemorate the sacrifices of Newfoundland's service personnel. These include:
The National War Memorial in St. John's is more than just a monument; it is a testament to the resilience and bravery of the people of Newfoundland and Labrador. In 1928, a postage stamp titled War Memorial, St. John's was issued, depicting the memorial and further cementing its place in the cultural and historical landscape of the province.
Visiting the National War Memorial offers a profound and moving experience, allowing visitors to reflect on the sacrifices made by so many. It stands as a powerful reminder of the cost of war and the enduring gratitude of a people who will never forget the bravery of their fallen heroes. Whether you are a history enthusiast or a casual tourist, the National War Memorial is a must-visit site that offers both education and inspiration.
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