Inside West Block on Parliament Hill in Ottawa is a quiet space that many Canadians may not know exists. The Room of Remembrance is home to eight Books of Remembrance, which preserve the names of Canadians who died in service to their country.
Each book represents a different conflict or period of service in Canada’s history. The collection includes the South African War and Nile Expedition, the First World War, the Second World War, the Newfoundland Book of Remembrance, the Korean War, the Merchant Navy, In the Service of Canada and the War of 1812. Together, these books honour generations of Canadians whose lives were lost through military service and other service to the country.
The books were originally housed in the Memorial Chamber of the Peace Tower. In 2019, they were moved to West Block to allow for renovations to Centre Block, where they are now displayed in the Room of Remembrance.
An important tradition takes place each morning at 11 a.m., when a member of the Parliamentary Protective Service conducts the Turning of the Page Ceremony where one page in each of the eight books is turned.
The books are more than historical records. Each name represents an individual with a life, a family and a story, preserving their place in Canada’s national history for future generations.
While Remembrance Day brings Canadians together each November to honour those who served and sacrificed, the Room of Remembrance offers a lasting tribute throughout the year. It is a reminder that remembrance extends beyond a single day, and that the names of those who served deserve to be recognized and preserved for generations to come.
Expedition Book of Remembrance, which honours
those who lost their lives during the South African
(Boer) War and Nile Expedition between 1899 and
Peace Tower.
1902.