A War Worth Remembering: South African War Commemorations in London, Ontario, 1902-1917

Kaden Prowse, The University of Western Ontario

Abstract

This thesis examines commemoration of the South African War of 1899-1902 in London, Ontario, between 1902 and 1917. Important to Londoners was the promotion of their identity as imperial citizens. Celebration and remembrance of the war, in addition to local volunteers, was one outlet for residents to affirm their imperial identity, and promote Canada’s ties to the British Empire. Paardeberg Day was widely celebrated by members of London’s elite. Religious and military events were held every February 27^th to remember the war and the sacrifices of Canada’s volunteers. These events were public spectacles that brought together hundreds of residents for moments of remembrance. Leading commemoration in London was members from the Royal Canadian Regiment of Infantry (RCRI) and the Imperial Daughters of the Order of the Empire (IODE). Both organizations promoted imperialism locally and were deeply integrated with members of the local elite. Upper- and middle-class women had a prominent role in commemorating the war. Leading commemoration was local members of the IODE. In addition to hosting commemoration events, the IODE had an important part in financing and building a war memorial. Meant to memorialize the war, the Soldiers’ Monument, instead, became a lightning rod for the IODE regarding the subject of commemoration. The dispute within the organization represents an early episode within the IODE’s history where the National Chapter’s authority was challenged.