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South African War Memorial: A Tribute to Sacrifice in Halifax

Honoring Canadian Sacrifice: A historic war memorial in downtown Halifax commemorating the South African War and those who served.

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The South African War Memorial in Halifax, Nova Scotia, stands as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made during the South African War (1899-1902). Located in the courtyard of Province House, this historical landmark honors the brave men and women who served and fell in the conflict.

A brief summary to South African War Memorial

  • Halifax, Downtown Halifax, Nova Scotia, CA

Local tips

  • Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the details of the memorial and its surroundings.
  • Take a stroll through the nearby streets to discover other historical sites and cafes.
  • Combine your visit with a tour of Province House, the historic legislative building next to the memorial.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    If you are in Downtown Halifax, a short walk will bring you to the South African War Memorial. From the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site, exit the main entrance and head south on Citadel Hill. Continue down the slope until you reach the intersection with Brunswick Street. Turn right onto Brunswick Street and walk for about three blocks until you reach the intersection with Spring Garden Road. Cross Spring Garden Road and continue straight onto South Park Street. After a short walk, you will see the South African War Memorial on your left, located at the corner of South Park Street and Sackville Street.

  • Public Transport

    From the Halifax Waterfront, walk to the nearest bus stop on Lower Water Street. Take bus number 14 towards Spryfield or bus number 1 towards the Halifax Shopping Centre. Ride for about 10-15 minutes and get off at the stop at South Park Street & Sackville Street. From there, the South African War Memorial is just a short walk away. Head north on South Park Street, and you will see the memorial on your right. A single fare on Halifax Transit is $2.75.

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Discover more about South African War Memorial

The South African War Memorial, also known as the Boer War Memorial, is located in downtown Halifax, adjacent to Province House. Erected by the people of Nova Scotia, the monument commemorates those who served and died in the South African War (1899-1902). This war, also known as the Boer War, saw over 7,000 Canadians, including female nurses, support British action in South Africa. The memorial features a statue sculpted by Hamilton MacCarthy, who also created the Boer War Memorial Fountain in the Halifax Public Gardens. The statue depicts a soldier holding a rifle overhead. At the base of the statue, four panels depict significant events of the war: the departure of troops from Halifax, the Battle of Witpoort, the Battle of Paardeberg, and the Siege of Mafeking. These panels also honor the infantry, mounted rifles, and artillery who fought in the war. The cornerstone of the monument was laid on October 19, 1901, by the Prince of Wales (later King George V). This was the first visit to Canada by a Prince of Wales. The Prince also presented medals to returning soldiers. For two decades afterward, Canadians gathered around memorials to the South African War on February 27 (Paardeberg Day) to say prayers and honor veterans. The South African War Memorial is open 24 hours a day and is easily accessible to visitors. It provides a place for reflection on Halifax's connection to global events.

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