For nearly 70 years, the monument in front of which you stand has held great symbolic value. It reminds the citizens of Rawdon of all the soldiers who lost their lives in the wars that have marked our history. On August 18, 1957, an impressive ceremony was held by Branch 198 of the Royal Canadian Legion, to unveil the brand-new cenotaph in the village of Rawdon. The unveiling was preceded by a parade of legionnaires led by a drum and bugle corps. Close your eyes: Can you imagine the solemn music that echoed through the neighborhood? Designed by Geoff A. Pinker, a veteran of the First World War, the monument pays tribute to all the fallen soldiers of the two World Wars and the Korean War. Flowers and wreaths were laid by Mesdames Demers and Bruneau, representatives of Canadian mothers who have lost a husband or son in war. Numerous wreaths were also presented by dignitaries, including MP Maurice Breton, on behalf of the Government of Canada. Just before the playing of the national anthem, a poem is recited. Since then, an annual parade of legionnaires marches to the Cenotaph for a commemorative ceremony on or around November 11th.
The Massue sawmill once stood on the site of the Cenotaph. Built in the late 19th century, it played a key role in local economic development, transforming timber from the vast surrounding forests into essential building materials. Located along the Rouge River, it was founded by the Massue family, entrepreneurs who contributed to the growth of the region’s lumber industry. Beyond its industrial function, the mill created jobs and boosted the local economy, attracting workers and their families. After its closure, the site was redeveloped to house the Cenotaph.