One of Norfolk County’s most iconic landmarks is set to be honoured with a major centennial celebration.
On June 17th—exactly 100 years to the day since it was first dedicated—the Norfolk War Memorial Carillon Tower will be the focus of a re-dedication ceremony that replicates the grandeur and solemnity of the original 1925 service.
Council will review final plans for the event on Tuesday, where staff will highlight community efforts, partnerships, and programming supporting the historic occasion.
The Carillon Tower was first unveiled in 1925 to honour the 216 men and one woman from Norfolk who died in the First World War.
The 60-foot structure contains 23 bells, including the largest—cast with an inscription in memory of those who died for freedom—measuring over 1,500 pounds.
The land was donated by the Norfolk School Board in memory of Simcoe High School students lost in the war.
In 1948, plaques were added for local soldiers killed in World War II, and another plaque was installed more recently for Norfolk’s fallen in Afghanistan.
This year’s 100th anniversary will feature a full-scale parade from the Simcoe Legion, with bands, Colour Parties, youth recitations, and a special performance of the original dedication speech set to music by the Carillon 100 Choir from West Lynn Public School.
Silver Cross Mothers or their descendants will lay wreaths, while Norfolk’s Carillonneur Jim Nicholls plays the tower’s bells.
Local artist Ian Bell has created cover art for a commemorative program, and a new exhibit is currently on display at Queen’s Park.
A full-colour educational publication will also be distributed to school children, reinforcing the tower’s importance as a symbol of remembrance for future generations.