Government of Canada celebrates the historical significance of the founding of the royal Canadian Legion

November 28, 2009

Winnipeg, Manitoba – On behalf of the Honourable Jim Prentice, Canada’s Environment Minister and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, the Honourable Steven Fletcher, Minister of State-Democratic Reform and Member of Parliament for Charleswood—St. James—Assiniboia, today announced the designation of the Founding of The Royal Canadian Legion as an event of national historic significance, on the recommendation of the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada. 

The Founding of The Royal Canadian Legion is of special meaning and value to all Canadians, ‖ said the Honourable Steven Fletcher. Our Government is proud to recognize it as an event that helped keep the memory of veterans and their sacrifices alive.

During the First World War, Canada underwent many trials, one of which was the repatriation of hundreds of thousands of returning servicemen. In an effort to address the needs of returning
Canadian armies, several small associations of ex-soldiers united throughout the country to provide comradeship and help with medical and financial needs not provided by the Crown. The founding meeting of the Canadian Legion of the British Empire Services League (later renamed The Royal Canadian Legion) took place at The Marlborough Hotel in Winnipeg in November 1925. It has since continued to serve Canadian veterans and honour the sacrifices they made.

Founded on the twin pillars of loyalty and comradeship, the Legion’s primary purpose since its creation has been to the service of the veteran and continuation of the memory of those who served,‖ said Minister Prentice. ―Our government is proud to recognize its important contribution to Canadian values.

"We are extremely pleased with this special tribute," said Wilfred Edmond, Dominion President of The Royal Canadian Legion. "The Royal Canadian Legion plays an active role in most of our communities and for its founding to be recognized for its significance to Canada is indeed a great honour."

Since 1925, successive owners, managers and staff of The Marlborough Hotel have been proud to be associated with the birthplace of The Royal Canadian Legion,‖ said Mr. John Perrin, Corporate Director of Sales and Marketing, The Marlborough Hotel. Now we are pleased that this nationally significant event has been recognized by the Government of Canada.

Parks Canada manages a nation-wide network of national historic sites that commemorate persons, places and events that have shaped Canada’s history and which offer visitors the opportunity for real and inspiring discovery. The Agency works to ensure that Canada’s historic and natural heritage is presented and protected for the enjoyment, education, appreciation and inspired discovery of all Canadians, today and in the future.