When the Edmonton Cenotaph was unveiled in 1936 to commemorate the 3,000 Edmontonians who died in the First World War, it’s unlikely that people imagined that it would someday recognize the military sacrifices from four wars.

Edmonton City Council has designated the Cenotaph as a Municipal Historic Resource in recognition of the deep historical significance of the structure. The Cenotaph pays tribute to the sacrifices of those who lost their lives in the First World War, the Second World War, the Korean War and the War in Afghanistan.

Organizing and fundraising for the Cenotaph began in 1929 and it was unveiled by Lord Tweedsmuir, Governor General of Canada, in 1936. The Cenotaph remains the prime gathering place for modern Remembrance Day ceremonies.

“The cenotaph is a powerful reminder of those who have given the ultimate sacrifice for Canada in four wars, and it also reminds us of the important role of the military in Edmonton,” said Principal Heritage Planner David Johnston. “The military are valued members of our community and the Cenotaph helps us honour their long history of service.”

The Cenotaph is constructed of concrete, steel and British Columbia granite and weighs more than 100 tons (over 90,000 kg). It is 22 feet (6.71m) tall. The base is 18 feet (5.48m) square and 12 feet (3.66m) deep.

The City’s Historic Resource Management Plan outlines the City’s mission to identify, protect and promote the preservation and use of historic resources. The Plan contains 24 policies and 88 action items that direct how Edmonton’s heritage should be preserved and celebrated. Since the plan was initiated in 1985, 168 properties have been designated as legally-protected Municipal Historic Resources, with more designations planned in the future.