A Legacy Preserved: Historic Memorials Find New Homes
The Hudson's Bay Company has taken a significant step to safeguard an important piece of Canada's military heritage. The retail giant has officially gifted several war memorials, including the poignant Roll of Honour, to new custodians: TD Bank and various branches of the Royal Canadian Legion. This transfer ensures these sacred tributes will remain accessible to the public and be preserved for future generations.
Honouring the Fallen Employees of Simpson's
At the heart of this donation is the Roll of Honour, a specific memorial dedicated to the employees of the now-defunct retailer Simpson's. This roll commemorates those staff members who served with the Canadian Forces and made the ultimate sacrifice, being killed during the Second World War. A photograph of the memorial, located within the Hudson's Bay store in Toronto, was captured on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, highlighting its historical significance and dignified presence.
Ensuring Public Access and Continued Remembrance
By transferring these memorials to institutions like TD Bank and the Royal Canadian Legion, the Hudson's Bay Company has ensured they will be displayed in locations with high public traffic and deep community ties. The Royal Canadian Legion, in particular, is an organization whose core mission revolves around remembrance and supporting veterans, making it a profoundly fitting home for these artifacts. This strategic move guarantees that the stories of courage and sacrifice embodied by the Roll of Honour will continue to be told and respected.
The announcement was made by The Canadian Press on November 12, 2025, a date poignantly close to Remembrance Day, underscoring the ongoing national commitment to honouring Canada's military history. This act of corporate responsibility sets a powerful example for the preservation of local and national history beyond traditional museum walls.
