The summer of 2005 saw the demolition of an 84-year-old school. A school that was built to commemorate the "Peace" so valiantly fought for by soldiers in the First World War. A school, that parts were reportedly used as a hospital ward to take the overflow of recuperating soldiers from that same war.
Now picture a place where you can walk through what was once the front entrance to the school and step into a park steeped in history and learning.
Welcome to "Peace Memorial Park." Since late 2005, a committee, spearheaded by Councillor Tom Jackson, has been planning this park. The committee comprised of neighbours, former students, and parents of former students, have been working closely with project manager Le’Ann Seely from the city's Open Space Development & Park Planning Section, and the Landscape Architecture firm Janet Rosenberg + Associates, to design a peaceful and passive park respectful of the site's heritage.
The preservation of the Arch serves as a majestic entrance to the "Memorial Walk." At the end, is a circular reflective sitting area surrounding a Dove etched in granite, which has long been the school's logo.
With the exception of the children’s play area, constructed in 1998, the entire park is an oasis in the neighbourhood, where residents and visitors can stop and meditate, rest in the shade, stroll the over 1/2 km walkways or watch the children play. Our Legacy Bricks, installed near the Arch, allow us to remember former staff, students & our Veterans.
Visit our gallery and time line, post a memory, but, most of all come out to the park and remember when children laughed and played in the school yard, walked quietly down the halls and cheered at the end of the school year. You may even hear the school bell ring.
Ward 6 Councillor Tom Jackson, with City Council support, initiated the purchase of the 5.37 acres property, with the intentions of creating a new neighbourhood passive park.
With over 100 awards, JRA, works closely with clients and consultants to provide quality designs ranging from classical to contemporary.
The Portico, now an Arch, was preserved due to its historical significance. It was designed in the tradition of the triumphal or memorial arch used since Roman times to commemorate famous battles and remember those who lost their lives in the war. This Arch is an excellent example of classical architecture, and rare to the City of Hamilton, since Gothic architecture was the preferred style for Hamilton schools during this time period.
The committee members are; Kathy Archer, Colwyn Beynon, Carla Brice, Gene Codd, Brenda Comeau, Councillor Tom Jackson, Gary Ostofi, Alison Pattison, Barbara Rhynold, Terry Senchuk, Betty Waring & Valerie Williams.
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