The Town of Stratford Cenotaph was designed by well-known Prince Edward Island Artist, and Canada Council of the Arts Board Member, Henry Purdy along with input from a special Veterans Committee. The committee was chaired by local Veteran Dr. Earl Kennedy.
Created from black granite that was mined in Nova Scotia, the cenotaph was unveiled on November 11, 2006, and dedicated to all Veterans of Stratford. Soldiers representing the three services of the Armed Forces (Air Force, Navy and Army) are depicted on the back of the cenotaph. A victory torch represents NATO efforts to victory, and a farm along with a fishing boat symbolizes what was left behind when Islanders headed off to war.
The cenotaph is surrounded by oak and maple trees. English Oak represents Britain for the First World War as Canadians fought under the Union Jack flag. Red Maple represents Second World Veterans who were fighting under the Canadian flag. Red Tulips (Holland) represent love, worthiness, and forgiveness. Lavender (France) represents devotion and energy. Boxwood symbolizes longevity and immortality and grasses represent a better tomorrow with growth and expansion. As the grass dies in the fall, it represents rest only to rejuvenate and live again come spring.
In 2021, an Honour Roll of ten metal panels were erected along the walkway leading to the cenotaph.
