Palmerston’s cenotaph could be on the move.
Following a recent presentation to councillors by Dr. George Vanner, Minto councillors are creating a committee to look into the restoration and possible relocation of the cenotaph in Palmerston.
Vanner, a veteran of the Korean War, offered his insights initially “as a delegation of one.”
He commented on the Cenotaph and Monument Restoration Program through Veteran’s Affairs Canada. That program notes that organizations may be eligible for up to 50% funding to a maximum of $25,000.
His understanding is that roughly $23-million is set aside for such projects across Canada.
The idea jogged in his mind after a visit to the community of Mattawa, which had used the program on its own cenotaph.
A friend took Vanner to visit the finished project – in what he described as a community half the size of Palmerston.
However, he said, that community has a much larger site and is surrounded by trees.
Vanner said numerous changes were made including construction of a large broad walkway, which would allow easier access for the disabled.
He noted the large number of local veterans who cannot properly take part because of the Palmerston site and its size.
Despite the program stating that it was ready to supply 50% funds, Vanner said the entire project in Mattawa was funded by the federal program.
Vanner did approach Palmerston Legion president Bill Dobson with the information.
“Most of you know the location and appearance of the Palmerston cenotaph,” he said. “It is not in bad shape, but the site is tremendously small.”
He said the other issue that prompted his suggestion of relocation, is the proposed sale of the library to Wellington County.
He said it would mean that, theoretically, the county would own the Palmerston Cenotaph.
“It is worth considering relocating it to a more appropriate site.”
His suggestion was to move the cenotaph in the Lion’s Heritage Park under development on the former railway grounds adjacent to Palmerston’s main street.
He said locating it near the old engine would give the cenotaph more prominence – and be seen more by the general public.
Vanner said that unlike the monuments in many communities, unless the person knows beforehand where it is located, he might never see it where it is now.
“It would be very conspicuous on the main street,” he said.
He admitted he is uncertain of the cost to move the monument, and suggested it might need a new base to lay wreaths around.
He said it is approaching Nov. 11 and there is not really enough room around the cenotaph for people to gather.
Although the number of veterans taking part in the parade itself is increasingly smaller, Vanner said there is little room for those taking part, or those arriving by bus to take part. Often people are required to stand in the street adjacent to the cenotaph for the service.
Locating the cenotaph in the heritage park would make the cenotaph more visible and create a venue for more people to participate in the ceremonies.
Vanner said some people may say that area veterans are dying off and there may not be as much a need for cenotaphs.
He disagrees.
With current world events, and Canada’s participation in them, Vanner sees more of a need than ever for recognition of Canada’s soldiers.
He said Palmerston’s present memorial prominently displays the efforts of those in the First and Second World Wars, but only a small plaque recognizing the Korean War.
He cited restoration work and addition space provided at the nearby Listowel cenotaph.
He said if Canadians begin to honour their peacekeepers in various countries – more space will be needed.
“Because, very likely, there will be more deaths.”
Vanner is involved in the Korean War Veterans Association. “We might call them peacekeepers now – but it is still a war.”
Possibly one distinction he made was than in Korea, the local population “was more friendly and they were not trying to kill us.”
Mayor David Anderson pointed out when the county agreed to purchase the library, the agreement was to keep the status quo with the cenotaph.
“But I will agree that for those travelling through Palmerston, unless you know where [the cenotaph] is, you’ll never find it.”
Anderson suggested the creation of a committee including members of the Palmerston Legion, the Lions Club and the municipality.
The group could investigate potential costs of relocation and restoration work.
He added similar investigations could look into the potential of applying for restoration funding at the Clifford and Harriston cenotaphs as well.
