Special Projects

Beechwood Cemetery Foundation Needs You: Help Us Preserve Canada’s Legacy

nmccarthy — Wed, 08 Jan 2025 13:50:03 +0000

Beechwood Cemetery Foundation Needs You: Help Us Preserve Canada’s Legacy nmccarthy Wed, 01/08/2025 - 08:50:AM

Beechwood Cemetery is more than a resting place—it’s where Canada’s history lives. As the National Cemetery of Canada, Beechwood honours our heroes, supports grieving families, and celebrates the stories that define our nation.

We can’t do it without you. Your support fuels everything we do, from preserving our historic grounds to hosting meaningful events that connect Canadians to their shared past.

Why Your Support Matters

Protect History - Help preserve the legacies of veterans, trailblazers, and everyday Canadians whose stories shape our identity. Be part of keeping their memories alive.
Build Community - Support programs that bring people together—educational tours, commemorations, and cultural events that make Beechwood a gathering place for all Canadians.
Continue to Enhance Beechwood - Join us in protecting Beechwood’s natural beauty. Your donations support densification, habitat restoration, and environmental sustainability.

How You Can Help

Make a Donation - Every contribution, big or small, helps us protect Canada’s heritage and build a brighter future.
Sponsor a Project - Choose to support key initiatives like restoring monuments, launching new programs, or preserving Macoun Marsh.
Plan Your Legacy - By including Beechwood Cemetery Foundation in your estate plans, you help ensure that our mission of remembrance and care continues for generations to come.

Let’s Do This—Together

Beechwood Cemetery is a place of stories, remembrance, and hope. With your help, we can honour the past, support the present, and create a legacy for the future.

Donate now and be part of something bigger: Beechwood Cemetery Foundation.

Let’s keep history alive—one act of kindness at a time.

Special Projects

January 9, 2025

Join Us in Preserving the Beechwood Legacy - This Giving Tuesday

nmccarthy — Mon, 02 Dec 2024 12:45:11 +0000

Join Us in Preserving the Beechwood Legacy - This Giving Tuesday nmccarthy Mon, 12/02/2024 - 07:45:AM

As the seasons shift, so does our gratitude for your steadfast support of Beechwood Cemetery. With your generosity, Beechwood transcends its role as a cemetery to become a vibrant haven where the stories of distinguished Canadians live on and community connections flourish.

At the Beechwood Cemetery Foundation, our mission is to safeguard this priceless piece of our national heritage, ensuring it continues to serve as a sanctuary of remembrance, natural beauty, and communal bonds.

Your donations help us nurture and enhance our 160 picturesque acres and support essential initiatives such as:

The Beechwood Arboretum Project: A living library of trees that tells the story of our heritage.
Urban Macoun Marsh Sustainability & Environmental Restoration: A commitment to preserving our delicate ecosystems for future generations. • Free Historical Tours: Bringing to life the rich tapestry of our shared history.
The Great Canadian Plaques Program: Honoring the legacy of remarkable Canadians who have shaped our nation.
Community Support Initiatives: Providing vital space for community healing and engagement.

Imagine the serene melodies of Chamberfest’s adaptive concert series resonating through our building or the moving tributes of the Ottawa Region’s Butterfly Remembrance Service for Bereaved Families of Ontario, turning grief into healing and remembrance.

Your contribution today ensures these enriching experiences continue to thrive at Beechwood.

This Giving Tuesday, we invite you to deepen your impact by joining the dedicated donors of the Beechwood Cemetery Foundation. Together, we can ensure that our grounds remain not just a place of peace, but a dynamic part of our community’s fabric, where history is honored, legacies are celebrated, and new memories are crafted. Please act now; your support is crucial in maintaining Beechwood as a beacon of community, beauty, and remembrance.

Every gift, no matter the size, makes a meaningful difference and helps sustain our cherished site. Thank you for your continued dedication to Beechwood Cemetery. We are deeply grateful for your partnership in preserving this sacred space.

With heartfelt thanks,

Beechwood Cemetery Foundation

P.S. Your contribution today is more than a donation—it’s a legacy. Help us continue these vital efforts by making your gift now. Let’s keep the spirit of Beechwood thriving together.

Special Projects

December 3, 2024

Honouring Legacy and Kindness: A Tribute at the National Military Cemetery

nmccarthy — Thu, 10 Oct 2024 17:42:55 +0000

Honouring Legacy and Kindness: A Tribute at the National Military Cemetery nmccarthy Thu, 10/10/2024 - 01:42:PM

On a bright autumn morning, the National Military Cemetery at Beechwood stood as a solemn and powerful reminder of Canada’s unwavering respect for its military heroes. On this day, we gathered not just to remember the past but to look towards a future built on the values of kindness, sacrifice, and service, inspired by the enduring legacy of Rabbi Reuven Bulka.

The ceremony was a heartfelt tribute to veterans, active service members, and community leaders who have left a lasting impact on Canada. The event also marked the official unveiling of a plaque dedicated to Rabbi Bulka’s life and work, celebrating his commitment to kindness and peace. The announcement of the Rabbi Bulka Kindness Project by Dr. Jon Mitzmacher was a highlight, ensuring that his vision of a better, kinder Canada lives on through tangible actions and initiatives.

Colonel Lisa M. Pacarynuk, Director, Chaplaincy Services, Royal Canadian Chaplain Service, delivered a moving speech, reflecting on the importance of remembrance, community, and the enduring spirit of our veterans. Her words resonated deeply with the crowd, urging us to continue carrying the torch of peace and responsibility. The significance of the day was deepened by the participation of local students, who brought a youthful perspective to the solemn proceedings.

A Grade 6 student read the Commitment to Remember: "They were young, as we are young, They served, giving freely of themselves. To them, we pledge, amid the winds of time, To carry their torch and never forget. We will remember them."

This collective act of remembrance was a poignant reminder that the sacrifices made by our military must never be forgotten, and it is up to future generations to carry forward their legacy.

A Grade 7 student’s recitation of In Flanders Fields added a touch of history and reflection, reminding us of the cost of war and the importance of remembrance. The words of Lieutenant-Colonel John McCrae, written during World War I, continue to hold a powerful place in Canadian history, connecting us to the soldiers who fought bravely in past conflicts.

The ceremony concluded with a Grade 8 student delivering Rabbi Bulka’s final Remembrance Day message, a call to ensure that the Canada our veterans fought for remains worthy of their sacrifices. His words are a reminder to all of us to strive for a nation built on values of peace, kindness, and inclusion:

"Let us continue to make Canada worthy of our veterans’ ongoing dedication and sacrifice, a country defined by respect, harmony, inclusion, responsibility, and kindness to all. God bless our veterans. God bless our troops. God bless all those who stand on guard, all champions of peace, safety, security, and tranquility. God bless Canada."

As the ceremony concluded with the playing of God Save the King, there was a palpable sense of gratitude and reflection among those in attendance. The students were invited to explore the military cemetery, taking in the stories and history that define this sacred space.

In these moments of reflection and remembrance, we are reminded of the enduring responsibility we all carry—to honor the past, engage with the present, and shape a future grounded in the values of kindness, respect, and service.

It is through events like this that we ensure the sacrifices of our military heroes will never be forgotten and that their legacy will continue to inspire generations to come. Let us all continue to work towards a Canada defined by the virtues Rabbi Bulka cherished, ensuring that our veterans’ dedication and sacrifices are never in vain.

Special Projects

October 11, 2024

Join Us for Beechwood’s Annual Living Library: One Earth

nmccarthy — Wed, 04 Sep 2024 11:12:25 +0000

Join Us for Beechwood’s Annual Living Library: One Earth nmccarthy Wed, 09/04/2024 - 07:12:AM

Join us this Sunday, September 8th, 2024, from 2 pm to 4 pm, as we gather for a unique journey through Beechwood Cemetery to celebrate those who made remarkable contributions to our environment.

This year’s Living Library Event – One Earth is all about honoring the environmental pioneers who rest within our grounds.

? Discover the Legacy of:

Faith Fyles: A trailblazer in botany, Faith became the first artist employed by the Horticulture division in 1920 after making significant contributions to the Arboretum at the Experimental Farm.
James Bernard Harkin: Known as the “Father of National Parks,” James was instrumental in the creation of 13 protected areas across Canada, leaving a lasting legacy with the National Parks Act of 1930.
James William MacNeill: As the chief architect of the world-renowned report "Our Common Future," James introduced the concept of sustainable development, shaping global environmental policy.
MGen Norman Elliott Rodger: A WWII veteran turned conservationist, Norman’s efforts in environmental education and his nesting box program helped revive the wood duck population in Winnipeg.

Why Attend? This event offers a chance to walk through history, hear stories of those who made a difference, and be inspired by their dedication to preserving our planet.

Come and celebrate with us – let’s honor the past and inspire the future, all in the heart of Beechwood.

? Date: Sunday, September 8th, 2024
⏰ Time: 2 pm - 4 pm
? Location: Beechwood Cemetery

Special Projects

September 4, 2024

Join Us in Supporting the Ottawa Police Service Memorial Cemetery

nmccarthy — Tue, 06 Aug 2024 16:20:24 +0000

Join Us in Supporting the Ottawa Police Service Memorial Cemetery nmccarthy Tue, 08/06/2024 - 12:20:PM

Celebrating Service: Join Us in Supporting the Ottawa Police Service Memorial Cemetery

Ottawa Police Service Memorial Cemetery brings our community together in honoring the brave men and women who have dedicated their lives to protecting and serving us. The OPS Memorial Cemetery stands as a testament to their courage, service, and the deep sense of pride we share in our community.

A Call to Our Community

Our police officers are more than just protectors; they are our neighbors, friends, and family members. The Ottawa Police Service Memorial Cemetery is a place where we can collectively honor their legacy, celebrate their contributions, and ensure that their sacrifices are never forgotten. By supporting this memorial, you are helping to preserve the history and spirit of our police force, while also providing a place of reflection and remembrance for generations to come.

Learn more about supporting of the OPS Memorial Cemetery

Special Projects

September 10, 2024

RCMP National Memorial Cemetery Fundraising Program

nmccarthy — Sun, 04 Aug 2024 15:59:26 +0000

RCMP National Memorial Cemetery Fundraising Program nmccarthy Sun, 08/04/2024 - 11:59:AM

The RCMP National Memorial Cemetery fundraising program is supported by The Ottawa Division of the RCMP Veterans’ Association , in close partnership with Beechwood Cemetery Foundation and the RCMP. We are pleased to introduce a variety of opportunities for you to support and contribute to this significant project.

Fundraising Opportunities

We invite you to be part of this meaningful initiative by contributing through various sponsorship options. Your generous donations will help us honor the legacy of the RCMP and create a lasting tribute to its history and contributions.

Read the RCMP National Memorial Cemetery Fundraising Program e-book!

To support theses initiatives, we are seeking contributions from both public and private sector donors, as well as all Canadian citizens who wish to be part of this historical project. Your donation will help us continue to honour the legacy of the RCMP and ensure that their service is remembered for generations to come.

Join us in celebrating and preserving the legacy of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. Your donation will not only honor the past but also inspire future generations to appreciate the RCMP's significant contributions to our nation.

Special Projects

September 5, 2024

Honouring Commissioner Maurice Jean Nadon: Unveiling of a Commemorative Plaque

nmccarthy — Tue, 04 Jun 2024 11:25:53 +0000

Honouring Commissioner Maurice Jean Nadon: Unveiling of a Commemorative Plaque nmccarthy Tue, 06/04/2024 - 07:25:AM

On May 23, 2024, a momentous occasion unfolded as a special plaque was unveiled near the Main Monument in a cemetery, dedicated to celebrating the exemplary leadership of some of Canada's Commissioners of the Mounted Police. Today marked the unveiling of the first plaque, paying homage to Commissioner Maurice Jean Nadon, who served from 1974 to 1977.

As the ceremony commenced, Veterans Affairs Canada Minister Petitpas-Taylor, Mrs. Suzanne Nadon-Metcalfe, Deputy Commissioner Boudreau, retired Commissioners Philip Murray, Bev Busson, and Brenda Lucki, Ottawa Division President Wayne Jacquard, and other members of Commissioner Nadon’s family were invited to come forward and participate in the unveiling.

Maurice Nadon, hailing from Mattawa, Ontario, held the distinguished position as the 16th Commissioner of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. His appointment brought with it a wealth of police and investigative experience garnered from across Canada. Commissioner Nadon's tenure was marked by a steadfast commitment to steering the Force through challenges of public scrutiny, championing modernization, and fostering significant change. Notably, he played a pivotal role in directing operations during the 1976 XXIst Olympiad in Montréal and advocated for intensified efforts against organized crime.

Under his visionary leadership, crucial modernization initiatives were undertaken, including the transformation of the RCMP's Canadian Police College and Canadian Police Information Centre to bolster law enforcement capabilities nationwide. Commissioner Nadon's impact extended far beyond administrative changes; he was instrumental in establishing the RCMP's first national Native Policing Branch, instituting the First Nations Special Constable Program, and implementing Cross-Cultural training and Police-Community Relations units nationwide.

His transformative initiatives also encompassed the development of the RCMP Member Staff Relations Program, pioneering francophone cadet training, advocating for paid overtime, and championing the integration of women into the RCMP. In recognition of his enduring contributions, Commissioner Nadon's legacy lives on through various honours, including the naming of a patrol vessel and the RCMP's National Headquarters as the "Nadon" and "MJ Nadon Government of Canada Building," respectively.

Throughout his remarkable 37-year career, Commissioner Maurice Jean Nadon exemplified visionary leadership, unwavering dedication, and a tireless commitment to the service of Canada and its people. As we unveil this plaque in his honour, may it serve as a lasting tribute to his legacy and an inspiration for generations to come, reminding us of the profound impact of dedicated leadership in shaping our nation's history.

Special Projects

June 4, 2024

Honouring the Legacy: A Retrospective on the RCAF 100 Commemoration Ceremony

nmccarthy — Wed, 22 May 2024 11:24:36 +0000

Honouring the Legacy: A Retrospective on the RCAF 100 Commemoration Ceremony nmccarthy Wed, 05/22/2024 - 07:24:AM

On a serene May 17 2024 in Ottawa, at the National Military Cemetery, a poignant ceremony unfolded to mark a century of the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF). This event, rich with history and reverence, brought together representatives from the United States, Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom, each paying homage to the shared legacy of training and sacrifice during World War II. The commemoration was not only a reflection on the past but also a celebration of the enduring bonds forged in the skies above.

The Living Forest and Symbolic Boulders

Central to the commemoration was the unveiling of five boulders, each symbolizing the deep-rooted connections between the allied nations. These boulders were more than mere stones; they represented the spirits of those who trained and fought together.

Accompanying these boulders were trees, planted to create a living forest, symbolizing growth, resilience, and the ever-present connection to nature.

The Canadian Shield Defender: Originating from the rugged terrains of Canadian Forces Base Borden, this boulder embodied the valor and resilience of Canada's military heritage. It stood as a testament to the legacy of the RCAF and the pivotal role Canada played in the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan.
The Point Cook Protector: From the historic RAAF Williams Point Cook in Victoria, Australia, this boulder symbolized the camaraderie between the Royal Australian Air Force and the RCAF. It honored the shared journey of Australian pilots who trained in Canada, emphasizing the kinship and cooperation between the two nations.
The Wigram Boulder: Hailing from Ōtautahi/Christchurch in New Zealand, this boulder represented the Royal New Zealand Air Force's (RNZAF) legacy. It retraced the journey of New Zealand pilots who trained as part of the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan, embodying the shared sacrifices and unity among the allied forces.
The Prestwick Sentinel: Originating from Glasgow Prestwick Airport in Scotland, this boulder symbolized the historic link between the Royal Air Force (RAF) and the RCAF. It traced the routes of RAF pilots who trained in Canada during World War II, representing the cooperation and solidarity between the RAF and RCAF.
The Congressional Boulder: Born from the historic grounds of the Congressional Cemetery in Washington DC, this boulder symbolized America's unwavering commitment to defend freedom and democracy through the skies. Hewn from the bedrock of American democracy, it stood as a silent witness to the valor and sacrifice of those who soared through the heavens in defense of liberty. It represented the spirit of American air superiority and the camaraderie of volunteers who joined the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan, embodying the bonds of friendship forged in the fight for freedom.

A Ceremony of Reflection and Honour

The ceremony commenced with a warm welcome from the Master of Ceremonies (MC), followed by a Territorial Land Acknowledgement, setting a respectful tone for the events to follow. The sequence of the event was meticulously planned to ensure each moment honored the historical significance and the personal sacrifices of those involved.

Lieutenant-General Eric Kenny, RCAF Commander, opened with remarks on the significance of RCAF 100, highlighting the achievements and enduring legacy of the force over the past century.

Ambassadors and High Commissioners from the United States, Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom then spoke, each reflecting on the sacrifices made by their countrymen who trained and fought alongside their Canadian counterparts.

Notable dignitaries included:

His Excellency David L. Cohen, U.S. Ambassador to Canada
His Excellency, The Honourable Scott Ryan, Australian High Commissioner
Her Excellency, Cecile Hillyer, New Zealand High Commissioner
Her Excellency, Susannah Goshko, British High Commissioner

Following these heartfelt speeches, Veteran and ANAVETS Honourary Dominion President of Gerald Wharton MVO, CD recited John Gillespie Magee Jr.'s sonnet, "High Flight." This evocative poem, written by Magee during his time as a fighter pilot, captured the spirit of aviation and the ethereal connection between pilots and the skies they traverse. Unveiling and Anthem Ceremonies

The MC then invited VIPs and Defence Community to stand behind their respective boulders. Each boulder was unveiled in a solemn ceremony, with the national anthems of the United States, Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, and Canada played sequentially, underscoring the unity and shared heritage of these nations.

The event concluded with official photographs and a moment of reflection, allowing attendees to absorb the significance of the day's events. The formalities wrapped up, but the living forest and the symbolic boulders remained, standing as eternal guardians of the memories and sacrifices of those who served.

The Living Forest Arboreal Symbols of National Pride:

To complement the boulders, individual trees were planted, each representing the national identity and historical significance of the participating countries:

Canada's Sugar Maple (Acer saccharum): The Sugar Maple, closely associated with Canada's identity, was officially designated as the National Emblem of Canada in 1996. This tree symbolizes Canada's ecological and historical heritage, contributing to the nation's commercial development and serving as a symbol of national pride.
United States' Chinkapin Oak (Quercus muehlenbergii): Prominent in eastern and central North America, the Chinkapin Oak was designated America's National Tree. It symbolizes the strength and resolve of American democracy and the nation's commitment to defending freedom.
United Kingdom's English Oak (Quercus robur): The English Oak, deeply embedded in British culture and history, supports diverse ecosystems and symbolizes the country's resilience and continuity.
Australia's Magnolia Stellata 'Royal Star': Known for its spectacular display of fragrant white flowers, this tree symbolizes Australia's natural beauty and the country's unique botanical heritage.
New Zealand's Picea Pungens 'Baby Blue Eyes': This semi-dwarf variety of Colorado Spruce adds a unique charm to New Zealand's landscape, symbolizing the country's dedication to preserving its natural environment.

A Timeless Tribute

This commemoration was more than an event; it was a bridge connecting the past with the present and future. The living forest and the boulders will continue to tell the story of international cooperation, sacrifice, and the indomitable spirit of the air forces involved. As visitors walk through this hallowed space, they will be reminded of the bravery and unity that defined a pivotal era in world history, ensuring that the legacy of those who served is never forgotten.

Special Projects

May 22, 2024

Sustainability of the Urban Macoun Marsh and Environmental Restoration – SUMMER by Jennifer Lamoureux, Biologist

ewagner — Thu, 02 May 2024 17:05:40 +0000

Sustainability of the Urban Macoun Marsh and Environmental Restoration – SUMMER by Jennifer Lamoureux, Biologist ewagner Thu, 05/02/2024 - 01:05:PM

The Macoun Marsh is a rare wetland feature tucked away at the southwest corner of Beechwood Cemetery. Despite being in a highly urbanized part of the City of Ottawa, the Macoun Marsh provides an important and unique wetland habitat for fish and wildlife in the area. On the surface it appears as a cattail marsh with a naturalized shoreline area, however those close to the marsh have noticed some recent changes.

Wetlands by the very nature of the name are areas that are typically wet during various parts of the year and usually have plants that are tolerant of wet conditions. They provide many benefits to the watershed including the storage of water to help with flood control and erosion, filtering water to improve water quality, providing important fish and wildlife habitat, and are locations with generally higher biodiversity.

Due to the increase in the number of drought years that we are experiencing, the Macoun Marsh often suffers from extremely low water levels, which negatively impacts summer and winter habitat conditions for the species that rely on it. Along the shoreline zone there have also been increases in the number of non-native invasive plants including common buckthorn and garlic mustard. Over time, both these plants will negatively impact the diversity of the riparian area surrounding the Macoun Marsh, which will impact the terrestrial and aquatic functions of the wetland.

These observations have led to Beechwood forming a local with ASL Contracting to improve the wetland by implementing common wetland restoration techniques. Local partners have come together to enhance the marsh and to improve habitat conditions for fish and wildlife populations.

The work will involve opening up pockets of the cattail beds through excavation, installing wood structure from trees that have already fallen from previous storms and have been stockpiled nearby, and revegetating any disturbed areas along the shoreline with native plants and seed mixtures.

The habitat enhancement project aims to do the following:

Create deepened pool habitat within the wetland.
Increase biodiversity of aquatic/terrestrial plants, fish and wildlife.
Provide winter and summer refuge areas for fish and wildlife, including rearing areas for waterfowl and areas for shorebirds to feed.
Install logs for turtles to bask and for fish to use as cover.
Remove invasive shrubs along the shoreline and replant with native shrubs.
Select native shrubs that provide food sources for birds.
Improve biodiversity to enhance the educational opportunities for local school and community groups.
Enhance the passive recreational opportunities for activities like bird watching and nature photography.

Once the work is completed it doesn’t take long for the wetland to adjust, for the plants to take hold and for wildlife to thrive.

How can you get involved?

There will be opportunities for the community to get involved with the project during and after construction.

Opportunities for a community planting day to remove invasive species along the shoreline and replant with native shrubs will be available. Stay tuned for more details and opportunities to get involved with that aspect of the restoration plan.

Another important part of any wetland restoration project is to monitor the change after construction. To help us understand how the wetland restoration project is working, we will be asking the community to share their observations with us. This can be done in a variety of ways including application programs like INaturalist or simply by sending them in. This will help us understand how the wetland is adapting and what future work might provide additional benefits.

Special Projects

By Jennifer Lamoureux, Biologist

Off

Revitalizing an urban oasis: The restoration of Beechwood’s Macoun Marsh

nmccarthy — Mon, 22 Apr 2024 10:53:19 +0000

Revitalizing an urban oasis: The restoration of Beechwood’s Macoun Marsh nmccarthy Mon, 04/22/2024 - 06:53:AM

Beechwood Cemetery Foundation tackles invasive species and water challenges to preserve a vital habitat and educational resource in Ottawa. The Beechwood Cemetery Foundation has announced a significant environmental restoration initiative to revitalize the Macoun Marsh, a unique urban wetland within the Beechwood Cemetery.

This project addresses the challenges of invasive plant species and fluctuating water levels threatening the marsh’s biodiversity. he Macoun Marsh, a rare wetland in the southwest corner of Beechwood Cemetery, has been a vibrant habitat for turtles, frogs, and other marine life.

However, the proliferation of cattails and other non-native invasive plants has significantly reduced the available area for these species, prompting urgent restoration efforts. Nicolas McCarthy, the director of marketing, communications, and community relations for Beechwood National Memorial Centre, highlighted the importance of the marsh as a biodiversity hotspot and an educational resource.

“This year marks a significant milestone for us as we aim to enhance the marsh’s ecosystem by deepening its pool,” McCarthy explained. “This intervention is designed to increase biodiversity, provide a better refuge for wildlife, and ensure a healthier environment overall.”

Read full article here.

Special Projects

Angela Lackey, CityNews Ottawa

April 22, 2024