Commemorating the Workers Who Built the Rideau Canal

I had the honour of attending this year’s Celtic Cross Ceremony, held at the foot of the Rideau Canal near the Bytown Museum. Each year, this meaningful event pays tribute to the thousands of workers and their families who built the canal between 1826 and 1832. Many of them lost their lives in the process.

The monument, unveiled 21 years ago, stands as a lasting reminder of their sacrifice. The Rideau Canal is not only a marvel of engineering but also a symbol of perseverance and community. It was built by hand, under harsh and often dangerous conditions.

This year’s ceremony also marked 193 years since the start of construction and 18 years since the canal was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It served as an important moment to reflect on the human history behind one of Ottawa’s most iconic landmarks.

Speakers included Chloé Dennis from the Bytown Museum, Thomas O’Neill from the Irish Society of the National Capital Region, and Seán McKenny from the Ottawa and District Labour Council. Each helped to bring the legacy of the workers to the forefront. I was also joined by my council colleagues, Councillors Brockington and Kavanagh, as well as many members of our local Irish community and residents from across the city.

I’m grateful to the Bytown Museum for continuing this tradition year after year, and to everyone who took the time to come out and honour the lives and stories that helped shape our city.