The City of Charlottetown has completed a significant restoration of the cenotaph on Grafton Street, also known as the Soldiers’ Monument, ensuring it is in excellent condition in advance of this year’s Remembrance Day ceremonies.
Created by notable Canadian sculptor George William Hill, RCA (1861 – 1934), the cenotaph was first unveiled on July 16, 1925. Erected by the citizens of Charlottetown to honour Island veterans and those who died in service to their country, this restoration project coincides with the monument’s 100th anniversary.
“The restoration of the cenotaph is an important way to honour and preserve the legacy of veterans and all Islanders who served in Canada’s military efforts during times of war, conflict, and peace,” said Councillor Terry Bernard, Chair of the City’s Economic, Tourism and Cultural Development Committee. “We are grateful to Veterans Affairs Canada for their contribution to this initiative on the centennial of the monument’s unveiling.”
The project was supported by Veterans Affairs Canada, which contributed $25,000 toward the total $125,000 project budget.
“Honouring those who served is a responsibility we share as a community,” said Sean Casey, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence and Member of Parliament for Charlottetown. “The Government of Canada is pleased to support the restoration of the Soldiers’ Monument in Charlottetown through Veterans Affairs Canada’s Commemorative Partnership Program. This restoration work will ensure the cenotaph remains a solemn place to honour the legacy of those who fought for our freedom.”
Restoration work included cleaning, re-patination, and protective waxing of the bronze statue, as well as cleaning and repointing of the granite base.
To learn more about the City of Charlottetown’s collection of monuments and public art, visit
charlottetown.ca/publicart.