The Holden Cenotaph was erected in 1923 to honour soldiers from the area that lost their lives during the First World War. It was unveiled during a ceremonial parade, organized by Veterans, on July 4, 1923 and dedicated by Anglican Bishop Henry Allan Gray of Edmonton. It consists of a sculpted First World War soldier on a 2.5 meters river rock base. The Ladies Auxiliary assisted with design of the front marble plaque and fundraising.
Holden’s Cenotaph is one of two known sculptures of a soldier completed by Major Frank Norbury in Alberta. The statue depicts a soldier taking cover in ruined masonry, looking east toward the enemy, preparing to throw a Mills bomb. The detail in the soldier’s attire is evidence of the sculptor’s war experience. Norbury’s artistic ability conveys a sense that the soldier is standing on guard, ready to defend. Major Frank Norbury, an English-Canadian sculptor, was born in Liverpool, England in 1871. He worked as a sculptor from a young age, served in the First World War, came to Canada in 1920 and settled in Edmonton.
The cenotaph's location is the most prominent intersection and highest elevation of the community. It has remained a part of the community, under ownership and control of Veteran’s association through various transitions to the present-day Legion. The Legion funded, designed and installed the bronze Second World War plaque in 1952.
