A Tribute to Those Who Served
On November 11th, the City of Niagara Falls invites residents and visitors to join in the annual Remembrance Day Service, honoring those who sacrificed for our freedom. This yearâs service will take place at the Cenotaph beside the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Fairview Cemetery, located at 4501 Stanley Avenue, starting at 10:45 a.m.
For those unable to attend in person, a live stream of the event will be available online, starting at 10:45 a.m. Watch it here on Remembrance Day.
The Clifton Hill War Memorial: A Local Tribute to Niagaraâs Fallen
In the heart of Niagara Falls at Clifton Hill and Falls Avenue, visitors can find the Clifton Hill War Memorial, a tribute to Niagaraâs fallen heroes located within Victoria Park. This monument, known as Memorial 35052-004, is a granite shaft crowned by a striking bronze statue of a Canadian infantryman from the First World War, standing with rifle in hand and helmet by his side.
Originally unveiled on May 22, 1927, the Clifton Hill War Memorial was dedicated to the men of Niagara Falls who lost their lives during the First World War. In 1982, it was updated to also commemorate those who served in the Second World War and the Korean War. The original inscription, âTO THE GLORY OF GOD AND IN GRATEFUL REMEMBRANCE OF THE MEN OF NIAGARA FALLS WHO FELL IN THE GREAT WAR,â was expanded with an âSâ added to âGreat Warâ and the years 1939â1945. Two pink granite stones were installed on either side of the monument, inscribed with the names of Niagara Falls residents who perished in the Second World War, and the four fallen from the Korean War were added to the back.
Memorial Inscription:
- Front inscription:
âTO THE GLORY OF GOD AND IN GRATEFUL REMEMBRANCE OF THE MEN OF NIAGARA FALLS WHO FELL IN THE GREAT WARS
1914-1918
1939-1945BEHOLD THIS STONE SHALL BE A WITNESS UNTO US.â
For those interested in exploring further, the Clifton Hill War Memorial offers a hidden photo gallery where visitors can view historical photos and detailed perspectives on this poignant monument. Located in an area bustling with attractions, it provides a quiet spot for reflection amidst the lively surroundings of Clifton Hill.
Other Remembrance Day Services Across Niagara
In addition to the Niagara Falls service, other Remembrance Day ceremonies will be held across Niagara. Here are a few locations where residents can honor the day:
- Grimsby: At the Cenotaph by the Grimsby Museum (6 Murray St.), with services beginning at 10:45 a.m.
- Lincoln (Jordan Station): A ceremony will be held on November 8th at Jordan Lionâs Park, beginning with a veteransâ march at 10:45 a.m.
- Pelham: A service at Veterans Park (141 Hwy. 20 E) begins at 10:40 a.m.
- Thorold: At Memorial Park (corner of Albert St. E and Chapel St. S), including a parade, running from 10:20 a.m. to noon.
- Welland: A service at the Cenotaph in Chippawa Park (128 Fitch St.), from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.
These gatherings across Niagara create opportunities for communities to come together, share in remembrance, and honor the legacy of our veterans.
Reflect and Explore on Clifton Hill
After the service, consider spending time at Clifton Hill. Known as the âStreet of Fun,â Clifton Hill offers a range of attractions, including the Niagara SkyWheel, Dinosaur Adventure Mini Putt, and numerous family-friendly restaurants. For a meaningful day, take a few moments at the Clifton Hill War Memorial in Victoria Park to honor those who served, and then enjoy the nearby attractions.
Remembrance Day in Niagara Falls provides a special time for residents and visitors to pause, reflect, and give thanks. Whether in person, online, or through a visit to the Clifton Hill War Memorial, the day honors the courage and sacrifice of those who served.