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Famous Five Statue: A Tribute to Canadian Women

A tribute to Nellie McClung, Emily Murphy, Louise McKinney, Irene Parlby, and Henrietta Muir Edwards, champions of women's rights in Canada.

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The Famous Five Statue in Ottawa commemorates the five Canadian women who fought for women's rights and were instrumental in the Persons Case of 1929, securing women's recognition as 'persons' under the law. The bronze sculpture is a powerful symbol of their courage and determination.

A brief summary to Famous Five Statue

  • 2 Rideau St, Ottawa, Byward Market - Parliament Hill, Ontario, K1N 8X5, CA

Local tips

  • Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photographs.
  • Take time to read the nearby plaques to fully appreciate the historical significance of the statue.
  • Combine your visit with a stroll through the Byward Market for a taste of local culture and cuisine.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    If you're in the Byward Market area, head southwest on George Street, then turn left onto Rideau Street. The Famous Five Statue will be on your right at 2 Rideau St. From Parliament Hill, walk east toward the Ottawa River, then continue towards the ByWard Market area. Cross Rideau Street and head slightly north to find the statue.

  • Public Transport

    Take OC Transpo bus routes that service downtown Ottawa. Routes 1, 5, and 14 go through the central area. Get off at the Rideau Centre stop. From there, walk east on Rideau Street toward the intersection with Dalhousie Street. The Famous Five Statue is located at 2 Rideau St. A single ride on OC Transpo costs approximately CAD 3.75.

  • Car

    Head towards Ottawa city center and follow signs for Byward Market. Take Rideau Street east. The Famous Five Statue is at 2 Rideau St. Several public parking lots are nearby, such as Rideau Centre parking or Byward Market parking, with rates of approximately CAD 3-4 per hour. Street parking is also available, but check local regulations.

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Discover more about Famous Five Statue

The Famous Five Statue, located at 2 Rideau Street in Ottawa, stands as a tribute to the five remarkable women who challenged the status quo and paved the way for gender equality in Canada. Nellie McClung, Emily Murphy, Louise McKinney, Irene Parlby, and Henrietta Muir Edwards, known as the Famous Five, spearheaded the Persons Case, a landmark legal battle that resulted in women being recognized as 'persons' under Canadian law in 1929. The statue, created by sculptor Barbara Paterson, depicts the women in a celebratory moment, having just learned of their victory. Nellie McClung holds a newspaper announcing the news. The monument serves as a reminder of the ongoing journey toward women's rights and the importance of challenging societal barriers. The Famous Five were also featured on the back of the Canadian $50 bill from 2004-2012. The Famous Five monument is more than just a representation of historical figures; it is a symbol of the progress made in the ongoing struggle for gender equality. Visitors to Ottawa can reflect on the courage and vision of these women as they stand in front of the statue, honoring the legacy of the Famous Five.

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