VIDEO: Canada’s National Horse Statue Unveiled on Friday at Upper Canada Village

Morrisburg – The new life-size, bronze statue of Canada’s National Horse, ‘the Canadian’ was unveiled on Friday, September 13, 2024, at Upper Canada Village where donors and others were recognized for supporting this significant initiative.

Video of the Unveiling:

For the last year or so, a small volunteer group that partnered with the St. Lawrence Parks Commission, raised over $200,000. from the private sector to build the statue.

The volunteer committee included Don Cook, Darlene Burns, Susan Le Clair, and Ron de Vries.

The statue was designed by Brockville artist and sculptor, Dave Sheridan, who used two of Upper Canada Village’s own Canadian horses as models.

“We are beyond grateful for the support from everyone who contributed to this beautiful tribute to a symbol of Canadian strength and resilience.” said the St. Lawrence Parks Commission
“The statue celebrates the strength, endurance, and legacy of this incredible breed, often called “The Little Iron Horse.”

The statue portrays a Canadian Horse pulling a stump out of the ground, clearing the land, which would have been a common scene in the 1800’s as settlers started clearing land in Upper Canada (present-day Quebec).

“This was by far, the biggest project I have ever done,” said Sheridan. “It was an incredible experience, and I am extremely pleased with the finished bronze product, produced by Research Casting International in Trenton.”

It was a “dream come true” for Committee Co-Chair, Don Cook. “I can’t believe this statue is FINALLY here!” said Cook. “We are so very grateful to everyone who supported this amazing project, especially our donors and the St. Lawrence Parks folks who believed in us and partnered with us.”

During the unveiling of the Statue, the volunteer committee ‘handed over the reins’, donating the statue to Upper Canada Village on behalf of all donors.

Le Cheval Canadien, commonly known as ‘The Little Iron Horse’, has National Significance. Canada’s Parliament passed a bill in 2002 establishing the Canadian Horse as Canada’s National Horse, recognizing the breed’s fine qualities and its contribution to Canadian history.

Upper Canada Village exclusively uses Canadian horses on-site to interpret 1860s life and does an excellent job of showcasing the breed’s versatility.