Chapleau cenotaph moved to new site beside Royal Canadian Legion Hall in 1978

In June 1978, a very moving ceremony was held to rededicate the cenotaph which had been moved from its original location beside St. John's Anglican Church, to its present site beside the Harry Searle Branch No. 5 of the Royal Canadian Legion Hall. Newcomers to Chapleau and many younger people may not know that at one time the cenotaph had another home.

 The cenotaph was located at the north end of Young Street between St. John's Anglican Church and the old Town Hall.


The ceremony conducted by branch president Henry Therriault opened with the singing of 'O Canada' and the hymn 'O God Our Help in Ages Past' by the Chapleau Community Choir. Rev. William Ivey, branch padre, then gave the scripture reading followed by the community choir singing the anthem, 'Mine Eyes Have Seen the Glory.' Mr. Ivey and Rev. Carson Duquette then delivered prayers of thanksgiving.

The cenotaph was then unveiled and Mr. Ivey gave a prayer of dedication while Air Cadet Morris played Last Post and Reveille. Cenotaph guards were Ken Russell and Lou Casconette. Branch president Therriault then laid a wreath, followed by others at the foot of the cenotaph in its new location. Legion members who were on parade deposited their poppies.

Jack Boucher was responsible for moving the cenotaph.

I placed a wreath on behalf of the citizens of the Township of Chapleau.

Led by the Chapleau Town Band, Legion and Air Cadet members went on parade around town, followed by visits to the cemeteries for a dedication of the graves of veterans.