Donors Support Centenary Commemoration

George Metcalf Archival Collection
CWM 19930012-528

Four years ago, Canadians marked the 100th anniversary of a milestone in our history as a nation: the beginning of the First World War. This conflict profoundly altered and shaped the lives of individual Canadians, our country as a whole, and our place on the world stage. Passchendaele, Vimy Ridge and the Somme are now forever synonymous with Canadian spirit and sacrifice.

I am proud of the critical, leading role the Canadian War Museum played in country-wide observances of this event. With the support of a network of partners, the Museum reached out to Canadians of all ages, and engaged them in projects of lasting national and cultural value.

Centenary initiatives included updates to galleries, multiple on-site and international travelling exhibitions, new research and publications, immersive programming, conferences, school programs, archival projects, the conservation of major works of art, and the acquisition of priceless military artifacts.

Donors were essential to this process. From 2014 to 2018, 4,625 donors were inspired to contribute a total of $3 million in support of the Museum’s Centenary programming. Together with our official partners and sponsors, they helped shape a national, ongoing conversation with our history. Donors to both Museums continue to play an indispensable role in safeguarding and sharing the story of Canada and its people. Thank you!

Mark O’Neill
President and CEO