In 1935, representatives of some 32 organizations formed a Citizens Cenotaph Committee with Mr. A.E. Nightingale as chairman. The Municipal and Westward Ho! Chapters of the Imperial Order of Daughters of the Empire, Women’s Conservative Association, Overseas Nursing Sisters' Association, Edmonton War Widows Association, Red Chevron Club, ex-servicemen's organizations, service clubs and many dedicated citizens participated.
The Edmonton Cenotaph represents the tombs of approximately 3,000 veterans from the Edmonton area who made the supreme sacrifice in the First World War. It was erected during the reign of King Edward VIII and unveiled on August 13, 1936, by Lord Tweedsmuir, then Governor General of Canada.
The Cenotaph stands 23 feet high and is constructed of concrete, steel and British Columbia marble, with a total weight of more than 100 tons. The base is 18 feet square and 12 feet deep, reinforced with streetcar rails. The platform rests on 12 concrete piles that are eight feet deep, also reinforced with steel rails. Originally located at 102 Street and 100 Avenue, the Cenotaph was moved to the City Hall Plaza in 1978.
A number of dedications have taken place over the years, with additional engravings including the Second World War (dedication 1946), the Korean War (dedication 1956), and Afghanistan (dedication June 13, 2021).
