The Dutch Memorial
Garden
The Dutch Memorial Garden, at the intersection of Huron, Mornington and William Streets, commemorates the friendship between Stratford and Dutch Troops stationed here during the Second World War.
In 1940, the Dutch Royal Family, with many citizens and military personnel, fled Holland to England ahead of Nazi Occupation. In 1941, the army re-grouped in Canada, and the Dutch Royal Family relocated to Ottawa.
Many Dutch soldiers were billeted in Stratford in a re-purposed furniture factory that became known as Juliana Barracks.
Photo: Amanda Ryan
Photo: Amanda Ryan
A close connection developed between the soldiers and Stratford residents. The monument in the Dutch Memorial Garden, depicting The Netherlands as a bird with supporting Canadian hands, was dedicated in 1959.
Did You Know?
Friendship between the countries continues, and Holland’s Princess Margriet (who was born in Ottawa when the Royal Family lived there during the war) came to Stratford in 2017 to re-dedicate the monument.
For more information about the friendship between Canada and Holland see the historical
marker near the sculpture installed by Garden Stratford (Stratford and District Horticultural
Society)
Tulip planting is a tradition dating from the monument’s installation, when Holland sent Stratford 1,300 tulips to plant at the site. In spring, the garden is a showcase for red and white tulips representing the relationship between Canada and Holland.
At the close of tulip season, the beds are replanted with other red and white flowers such as begonias. In the 2017 garden, blue ageratum around the base of the monument complete the red, white and blue colours of the Dutch flag.
Members of Stratford and District Horticultural Society maintain other beds near the Dutch Memorial.
Photo: Anu MacIntosh-Murray
Spot-It
In the 2017 garden, “Black Lace” elderberry shrubs are particularly striking, as well as very attractive plantings of Hosta near the riverbank.
Photo: Doug Reberg
While visiting the Dutch Memorial Gardens (and particularly if you have found a good parking place), you may wish to follow the path along the Avon River a bit further to visit the Pergola, another public garden just past the dam/bridge leading to York Street.
Look for other garden beds maintained by members of Garden Stratford (Stratford and
District Horticultural Society).
Photo: Doug Reberg