Canada’s Dream Shall Be Of Them

This book, Canada’s Dream Shall Be Of Them, compiles heartfelt epitaphs from Canadian war cemeteries, revealing personal stories of loss and national memory from the First World War.

This anthology presents a collection of epitaphs from the war cemeteries where Canadian soldiers rest in Flanders and France. These memorials serve as poignant reminders of the immense toll the First World War took on lives, encapsulating both pride and sorrow that continue to resonate in Canada today. The war left a complex legacy, symbolized by monuments like the Vimy Memorial and the Brooding Soldier, which reflect the spirit of shared sacrifice and nationhood forged during the conflict.

However, alongside these grand commemorations lies a deeply personal narrative, often overlooked. The book captures the heartfelt inscriptions that bereaved families chose to engrave on the headstones of their loved ones, as invited by the Imperial War Graves Commission. These simple yet profound farewells echo the voices of parents, spouses, and children who grappled with their loss and sought solace in the aftermath of the Armistice.

Canada’s Dream Shall Be Of Them not only showcases these epitaphs but also enriches the reader's experience with photographs and war art that transport them to the sites of remembrance. Each chapter delves into the sources and themes of the epitaphs, situating them within the broader context of Canada’s national memory of the First World War. While it holds particular significance for Canadian readers, the cultural connections to Great Britain and other English-speaking Dominions make this collection relevant to anyone touched by the legacy of 1914-1918.