The Major General Griesbach Memorial was erected by Canada Lands Company as part of their redevelopment of Edmonton’s former Canadian Forces Base (Griesbach Barracks). It was unveiled on September 11, 2005, and dedicated to men and women who serve in the military. A heroic scale equestrian bronze of Major-General William Antrobus Griesbach was designed by renowned bronze sculptor Don Begg of Studio West Bronze Foundry Ltd. for decorum and authentic representation of uniform, rank, regiment and time period. The flying mane and tail of the horse combined with the design of the pedestal create a dramatic centerpiece.
Major General Griesbach's military career began when he enlisted as a trooper for active service in the South African War, on December 28, 1899. In 1907, he became mayor of Edmonton. He continued to be active in the militia and achieved the rank of Major in the 19th Alberta Dragoons. When the First World War broke out in August 1914, Major Griesbach volunteered for the 1st Divisional Cavalry Squadron of the Canadian Expeditionary Force.
Shortly after reaching England, he was recalled to Canada and given command of an infantry battalion to be raised from the Edmonton area - the 49th Battalion. Led by Colonel W.A. Griesbach, the 49th Battalion was called to various engagements overseas, including the attack on Vimy Ridge, the defense of Arras and operations at Passchendaele and Mons.
In early 1916, the 49th Battalion joined the 7th Brigade, 3rd Division in France. The Battalion saw continuous action in France and Belgium until November 11, 1918. Of the 4,050 men who served with the 49th in the First World War, 977 were killed and 2,382 were wounded. Despite its heavy casualties, the Battalion never lost an engagement or a position throughout the war.
In September, 1921, he was promoted to Major-General, and the same month appointed to the Canadian Senate, a post he held until his death on January 21, 1945. He was given a full military funeral.
