One man, two statues
Born in Guelph Ontario, on November 30, 1872, John McCrae was to become a scholar, Doctor, teacher at OAC, soldier, artist, but best known as a poet. His poem, In Flanders Fields is widely recognized as the best known poem of the first world war. Written on May 3, 1915, this tribute to his fellow soldiers in WWI has become the remembrance banner throughout most of the world ever since. As we approach the centennial of its writing, both the citizens of Guelph, his hometown, and Artillery Regiments across Canada, have chosen to recognize this remarkable man by commissioning and erecting two identical statues of him. No government funding is involved.
- Ottawa statue unveiled - May 3, 2015
- Guelph statue unveiled - June 25, 2015
Ruth Abernethy
Renowned sculptor from Wellesley, Ontario
Born in Lindsay Ontario, Ruth Abernethy has risen to international acclaim for her work as a sculptor. She has been commissioned to commemorate many distinguished and accomplished individuals, including Glenn Gould, Oscar Peterson, and Mackenzie King. It seems only fitting that such an accomplished artist has been chosen to commemorate this exceptional human being.
Congratulations
- Goal - $300,000
- Raised - 100%
- Unveiling date - June, 25 2015
We are pleased to announce our target objective of $300,000 has been reached, well in advance of the June 2015 unveiling of the LCol John McCrae statue. Further information will be available as plans for the unveiling are finalized. Our fundraising success was due to the many generous and enthusiastic donations made in large part by local citizens and businesses. Special thanks goes to Rotary Club of Guelph Charitable Foundation.
