Memorial Gates

Description of the Historic Place

The Memorial Gates are two sets of stone columns with bronze gates installed at the entrance and exit roads of the University of Saskatchewan campus. Built in 1927, the Gates were built across from what was once the main entrance to the University.

Heritage Value

The Memorial Gates were constructed to honour sixty seven students and faculty from the University of Saskatchewan who lost their lives in the First World War. The University’s Graduates Association raised $10,000 for the purpose of building the memorial, with the help of various undergraduate groups who sold everything from pictures to poppies to assist in the funding. 

In May of 1928 the Memorial Gates were publically unveiled. The monument plans had been prepared by architect David Brown of Montreal.  The gate's stonework pedestals are inscribed with "University of Saskatchewan" on one arch and "Memorial Gates, Erected 1927 A.D." on the other. In the centre between the arches, is a large stone tablet on which is the Roll of Honour listing those individuals who had perished in the war. The tablet bears the inscription: "These are they who went forth from this University to the Great War and gave their lives that we might live in freedom."

The Memorial Gates continue to be a neighbourhood landmark in its commemoration of the sacrifice made by those who fought in World War I. 

Source: City of Saskatoon Built Heritage Database

Character Defining Elements

Key elements which contribute to the heritage value of this historic resource include:

• Those features that relate to the monument's historical significance including its two stone columns with inscriptions, bronze gates and stone tablet.