Monument aux morts français de Montréal et aux volontaires canadiens de l’armée française

Amidst the tranquility of La Fontaine Park stands the Monument aux morts français de Montréal et aux volontaires canadiens de l’armée française. This poignant memorial commemorates the French soldiers from Montreal and the Canadian volunteers who fought and died for France in World War I and later, World War II. The monument’s location, Place du Souvenir-français, is a fittingly serene spot within the park. It rests between Émile-Duployé and Papineau Avenues, just north of Sherbrooke Street East. The Monument aux morts français de Montréal et aux volontaires canadiens de l’armée française isn’t just a statue. It’s a story etched in stone. The Art Deco design, featuring the sculpted heads of two soldiers, speaks volumes. Bands of laurel and maple leaves intertwine, symbolizing the shared sacrifice of French and Canadian soldiers. The names of 108 fallen heroes are inscribed on the monument’s sides. 102 French soldiers and six brave Canadian volunteers who joined the French army. The Monument aux morts français de Montréal et aux volontaires canadiens de l’armée française has a rich history. The initiative for this memorial came from Le Souvenir français. This is the French organization responsible for the upkeep of war memorials. Sculptor Pierre-André Normandeau and architect Jean-Baptiste Soucy brought the monument to life. It was unveiled on Bastille Day, July 14, 1931, by a young war orphan. Quebec Premier Taschereau and other dignitaries were present, adding to the solemnity of the occasion. The monument originally stood near Sherbrooke and Papineau streets, facing Notre-Dame Hospital. In 1992, it was moved to its current location in the center of La Fontaine Park. This move coincided with the city of Paris gifting Montreal a monument to General de Gaulle. Now surrounded by maple trees, the Monument aux morts français de Montréal et aux volontaires canadiens de l’armée française stands as a testament to courage and sacrifice in a peaceful setting. It serves as a gathering place for remembrance ceremonies each November 11th and May 8th. Veterans’ associations, elected officials, and representatives of France gather here to honor the fallen. The Monument aux morts français de Montréal et aux volontaires canadiens de l’armée française is more than a memorial. It is a symbol of enduring friendship and shared history.