The National War Memorial site in downtown St. John’s, which includes the final resting place of the province’s unknown soldier, holds sentimental and historical significance for Newfoundlanders and Labradorians. Now, this historical landmark is being recognized by the Canadian Society of Landscape Architects (CSLA) with an Award of Excellence.

The Canadian Society of Landscape Architects National Awards are for projects whose architectural work demonstrates excellence against all judging criteria. These projects are nominated for the Jury’s Award of Excellence, which is given to the project that best demonstrates Canadian Society of Landscape Architects’ vision of advancing the art, science, and practice of landscape architecture. The National War Memorial has been recognized under the Small-Scale Public Landscapes category.

In 2022, the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, in partnership with the Royal Canadian Legion – NL Command, the Government of Canada and the Commonwealth War Graves Commission announced the refurbishment of the province’s National War Memorial, including the incorporation of a tomb, to commemorate the 100th anniversary of its official unveiling in 1924.

On July 1, 2024, Newfoundlanders and Labradorians gathered at the National War Memorial in St. John’s to mark the memorial’s centennial anniversary. This historic event included the laying to rest of an unknown Newfoundland First World War soldier whose remains were repatriated from Northern France.

Quotes
“Our province’s National War Memorial site offers a public space for visitors and residents to walk through, reflect and honour the sacrifices of those who serve and continue to serve for our rights and freedoms. This national award recognizes the hard work, dedication and artistic vision in our efforts to both modernize and retain the historical aspects of this important space.”
Honourable Elvis Loveless
Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure

“The centennial of the National War Memorial last July was an event that will live in the hearts of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians for generations to come. The site and the symbols contained within it so beautifully represent this province’s unique contribution to the First World War. To see the site recognized with this Award of Excellence is both exciting and meaningful.”
Honourable Fred Hutton
Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation

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