Several gathers during 20th anniversary of unveiling of Celtic Cross Monument
Several people gathered in Ottawa on Monday to commemorate the estimated 1,000 workers who died while building the Rideau Canal.
The Ottawa & District Labour Council held a Celtic Cross ceremony, with the following speakers:
- Jennie Quin, Deputy Head of Mission at the Embassy of Ireland
- Tim Tierney, Councillor Beacon Hill-Cyrville, City of Ottawa
- SC Ruszala, Visitor/Community Engagement Manager, Bytown Museum
- Sean Kealey, President, Irish Society of the National Capital Region
- Sean McKenny, President, Ottawa and District Labour Council
Residents gathered at the Celtic Cross Monument – which was unveiled on Aug. 5, 2024 – is dedicated to the workers and their families who died building the Rideau Canal between 1826 and 1832.
“Thank you to all who came out to honor the Irish contribution in Ottawa,” said the Embassy of Ireland - Canada via Facebook.
About 1,000 workers died due to accidents or sickness while building the canal. A total of about 7,000 workers worked on the project, according to a CTV News report.
The canal was originally built following the War of 1812 to provide a secure supply route from Montreal to Kingston, CTV News noted.
Today, Rideau Canal is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a major tourist attraction.
