Field of Crosses

Calgary, IL

Field of Crosses
Field of Crosses
Location
Calgary, IL
Category
heritage historic sites
Coordinates
51.056849, -114.064944
Best time
Morning or early afternoon
Weather tip
Check the local forecast before visiting.

Overview

The Field of Crosses is a poignant war memorial situated along Memorial Drive in Calgary, Alberta. Established as an annual tradition, this site serves as a solemn tribute to the thousands of Southern Albertans who sacrificed their lives in service to Canada. Each year, from November 1st to November 11th, a temporary installation of thousands of white crosses is erected on the banks of the Bow River, creating a powerful visual representation of the human cost of war. Visitors to this site are invited to walk among the rows of crosses, each bearing the name, rank, and regiment of a fallen soldier. The installation provides a space for reflection, education, and remembrance, drawing thousands of residents and tourists alike to pay their respects during the period leading up to Remembrance Day. When planning your visit, consider that early morning or early afternoon provides the clearest views of the memorial against the backdrop of the city skyline. As you explore local attractions, this site stands as a profound testament to historical memory and civic gratitude. It is a must-see for those seeking meaningful trip ideas that connect contemporary urban life with the sacrifices of the past. The site is accessible to the public, and visitors are encouraged to check the local Calgary weather forecast before arriving, as the late autumn conditions in Alberta can change rapidly.

General information

The Field of Crosses is a poignant war memorial situated along Memorial Drive in Calgary, Alberta. Established as an annual tradition, this site serves as a solemn tribute to the thousands of Southern Albertans who sacrificed their lives in service to Canada. Each year, from November 1st to November 11th, a temporary installation of thousands of white crosses is erected on the banks of the Bow River, creating a powerful visual representation of the human cost of war. Visitors to this site are invited to walk among the rows of crosses, each bearing the name, rank, and regiment of a fallen soldier. The installation provides a space for reflection, education, and remembrance, drawing thousands of residents and tourists alike to pay their respects during the period leading up to Remembrance Day. When planning your visit, consider that early morning or early afternoon provides the clearest views of the memorial against the backdrop of the city skyline. As you explore local attractions, this site stands as a profound testament to historical memory and civic gratitude. It is a must-see for those seeking meaningful trip ideas that connect contemporary urban life with the sacrifices of the past. The site is accessible to the public, and visitors are encouraged to check the local Calgary weather forecast before arriving, as the late autumn conditions in Alberta can change rapidly.

Did you know

  • The installation features over 3,400 white crosses during its annual display.
  • Each cross is individually placed by volunteers dedicated to honoring the fallen.
  • The site is located on a major thoroughfare named Memorial Drive, which was specifically designated to honor veterans.

History

The Field of Crosses began as a private initiative by Calgary businessman Murray McCann in 2003. Inspired by a similar display he witnessed in Georgia, USA, McCann sought to create a lasting way for Calgarians to honor those who served in the Canadian Armed Forces. Over the decades, the project has grown significantly in scope and public recognition. It has evolved from a small collection of tributes into a major city-wide event, involving partnerships with local military organizations and community volunteers. The memorial is now recognized as one of Canada's most significant temporary war monuments, serving as a focal point for Remembrance Day ceremonies in the province of Alberta.

Cultural significance

The Field of Crosses holds profound cultural significance for the Calgary community and the broader Canadian public. It serves as an immersive site of collective memory, transforming a public park space into a sacred landscape of remembrance. By placing the names of the fallen in the heart of the city, the memorial bridges the gap between past military history and present-day civic life. It fosters intergenerational dialogue, allowing younger generations to engage directly with the history of the World Wars and subsequent conflicts. The site reinforces values of sacrifice, duty, and peace, acting as a yearly visual reminder of the heavy toll paid by service members to secure the freedoms enjoyed by contemporary society.

Geography and landscape

The memorial is situated on the north bank of the Bow River, immediately adjacent to Memorial Drive, a primary arterial road in Calgary. This location is geographically strategic, as it places the memorial within the Sunnyside area, offering a striking contrast between the orderly, white rows of crosses and the modern glass skyscrapers of the downtown Calgary skyline across the river. The terrain is relatively flat, consisting of groomed parkland that allows for easy pedestrian access. The proximity to the river provides a quiet, reflective atmosphere, despite the site's location within a bustling urban environment. The landscape is designed to be highly visible to commuters, ensuring that the act of remembrance remains integrated into the daily rhythm of the city.

More facts

  • Imported from Wikidata

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