Contacts and information - Corentin Rousman Commemorations Coordinator for the City of Mons 22 Grand'Place, 7000 Mons, Belgique +32 (0) 478 / 41 ...
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Contacts and information Corentin Rousman Commemorations Coordinator for the City of Mons 22 Grand’Place, 7000 Mons, Belgique +32 (0) 478 / 41 76 89 corentin.rousman@ville.mons.be www.mons.be Artwork : Thierry Nisolle thierry.nisolle@ville.mons.be
Ø Elio Di Rupo, State Minister and Mayor of the city of Mons
In November of 2018, The City of Mons will become the historical focal point for Commemorative
Ceremonies for the end of World War I.
It is in Mons, that British and German armies first met in armed conflict on the 23rd of August 1914, thus
commencing the First World War. It was not until four years later, in November 2018, that Canadian
troops liberated our city bringing WWI to an end.
Consequently Mons has become a historic and symbolic place for Great War Centennial Ceremonies.
On November 11, 2018, Mons will host a festival of events to celebrate the end of World War I . Mons
would especially like to thank Canada by “colouring the city” in the colours of the nation that liberated
us. The City of Mons would like to acknowledge and commemorate the sacrifices that this young nation
made to bring about the end of the Great War. Armistice Day, the 11th of November 1918, marks the end
of the greatest conflict of the twentieth century.
H.E. Denis Robert, Ambassador of Canada
It was at Mons, on 11 November 1918, that the First World War ended for Canadian soldiers, after 4
years of fighting and immense sacrifices that changed Canada forever. More than 14,000 Canadian
soldiers died in Belgium between 1915 and 1918. The last of those soldiers to die was George Price,
killed 2 minutes before Armistice at Ville-sur-Haine, a few kilometers from Mons.
In the course of the last week of the First World War, the Canadian army liberated the entire region of
Mons, from Quiévrain to Casteau. This “Pursuit to Mons” was part of the “Hundred Days of Canada,”
a series of offensives in 1918 on the Western Front during which the Canadian corps spearheaded the
armies of the British Empire.
The First World War was an important landmark in Canada’s evolution towards nationhood. In 1914,
Canada entered the war as a self-governing dominion. Canada’s accomplishments on the battlefields of
Ypres, Vimy, Passchendaele and Mons have contributed - both at home and abroad – to respect for and
recognition of Canada for its commitment and leadership. This new reputation earned Canada the right
to affix its own signature on the Treaty of Versailles and to become a founding member of the League of
Nations. National status had been achieved.
As Ambassador of Canada, I am deeply moved by the intention of the City of Mons and of its Mayor,
Mr Elio Di Rupo, to honour Canada in Mons in November 2018 and I welcome those initiatives that will
contribute to the lustre of this major commemoration.
16:30
Military music concert
After the ceremonies, the music of the regiments would organize a concert of military music bands together
the different regiments.
17:00
Carillon Concerts
The highlight of the celebrations, the carillon of Mons, located in the belfry of the sixteenth century, and
Ottawa, the peace tower built at the end of the Great War, could simultaneously play common tunes, played
on Mons by the bell ringer at the arrival of Canadian troops in 1918. When it is 17:00 to Mons, it is 11:00 to
Ottawa.
Our desire would be to have the Ottawa ceremonies broadcast on a giant screen in Mons and conversely,
those of Mons in Ottawa broadcast on giant screen.
18:00
Projection / Mapping on the Main Square
This is a projection on the facade of City Hall Mons (XV century), with a video projection-mapping
technology. The aim is to trace the history of the Canadian expeditionary forces Europe, until the liberation
of Mons, narrated by the life sacrificed prism of George Price soldier (see elsewhere).
The overall objective is to create a true immersion in the lives of Canadian soldiers. performing artists also
will interact with the projection.
Mons, city with four masterpieces
Sunday program November 11, 2018 recognized by UNESCO
At dawn The City of Mons, population approximately repository for all paper knowledge and is another
March of Remembrance 100,000, was officially designated the Cultural UNESCO Heritage site.
Capital of Wallonia in 2002 and the European
The aim of this walk is to follow the step of the Canadians soldiers from their arrival on the territory of Cultural Capital in 2015. It is a city that Beyond its cultural and historical attributes Mons is a
Belgium to the liberation of the city of Mons. This activity is, as the walk of Nimègue, a performance of has considerable strengths in several areas. city turned toward the future.
more than 25 kilometre to accomplish in the morning from Quiévrain to Mons. It is specially organised The newly created Digital Innovation Valley has
for the military troops in Mons during the commemorations but also for the citizens who want to Mons is the capital of the Province of Hainaut. As a attracted companies such as Google, Microsoft and
participate. university city, home to the Université de Mons, it IBM. The INITIALIS Sciences Park, includes dozens
is also the administrative and judicial centre for the of companies specializing in new technologies in
province. Today the city has largely consolidated and biochemistry, telecommunications, civil engineering
11:00 and computing. It hosts two research centres, built
developed its role in the province (country) as a focal
Commemorative ceremony at the Cemetery of Mons point in terms of heritage, culture and tourism. The with backing from the University of Mons and The
city is welcoming and has a thriving commercial area University of Louvain-la-Neuve.
in both downtown Mons and the Grand Prés area.
Every year the city of Mons organized a ceremony at the municipal cemetery in honor of all the men who
fell during the various world conflicts. The walls of this historic city house several major
historical heritage sites including St Waudru
We wanted to organize our ceremonies in the afternoon to allow all persons to be present (the Belgian Collegiate Church, a gothic town hall and a baroque
Federal Government organizes an Armistice Day ceremony on the same day at 11:00 am in Brussels). belfry. The belfry stands 87 meters high and is the
only baroque belfry in Belgium. These sites are
recognized as World Heritage sites by UNESCO.
15:30 In addition to these sites, UNESCO also recognizes
Parade of liberation and memorial ceremony on the Main Square in Mons leading environmental accomplishments such as the
mining at Neolithic Spiennes (SILEX’S).
As in November 1918, we want to offer a big parade with all Canadian regiments heirs of the regiments Mon’s third masterpiece of world heritage is the
that participated in the “Pursuit to Mons” to remember their passage on the Main Square. festival of the Doudou. This historical event dates back
to the fourteenth century. The event is derived from
The composition of the parade would be heterogeneous, first Canadian regiments followed by their popular religious traditions. One religious tradition
regimental band and, successively, reenactors, the 5th Royal Lancer and a delegation of the Belgian held annually on Trinity Sunday, is the Procession
armed forces. of the Car d’Or or Golden Chariot. Following the
procession is the legendary battle called “Lumeçon”.
This battle pits Saint George against a dragon. It is
held in the centre of Mons in front of tens of thousands
of spectators and is broadcast on local television.
Culturally, the performing arts are growing thanks to
the cultural Center le Manège The fine arts centre is
called BAM (should write out what acronym means). It
offers world class art exhibitions recently showcasing
works by Warhol and Van Gogh. Duesbeg Museum
displays a variety of historical clocks that are envied
around the world. The introduction of two new
museums in 2015, the Mons Memorial Museum and
the Doudou Museum or Arthothèque, have enriched
the city’s museums. And, how can we forget the
Mundaneum, commonly known as “A Paper Google”
museum. It is a
2 Million visitors in 2015! Saturday program November 10, 2018
Mons 2015, European Capital of Culture, has been an undeniable success with more than 2 millions
visitors and a remarkable qualitative success. 10:00
Commemoration in Quiévrain
We note this exceptional year, the opening party on 24 January drew 100.000 people in Mons, as 455.000
people, including 180.000 for the Van Gogh exhibition, visited exhibitions and museums open Mons in The municipality of Quiévrain first place stride by Canadian troops when they enter Belgian territory, wants
early April 2015. to organize a commemoration and a parade with these regiments.
The attendance for project led by Mons 2015 is 2.136.700 people. Some 20.000 people participated in the
closing ceremony on 12 December. 12 :00
Commemorative ceremony at the military cemetery of St-Symphorien
3.000 events!
A ceremony organized jointly with the SHAPE [Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe] and the
Attendance at the Tourist Office « VisitMons » has increased by over 470% compared to 2014. Mons 2015
city of Mons, to remember the victims of the First World War, from the first to the last fallen soldier
has programmed some 3000 events in and around Mons, including 48 cities and 50 partners’ institutions,
Commonwealth.
5000 artists including 1500 local artist have been engaged in various project.
Mons 2015 bounces also from autumn 2018 in the form of biennial. “The objective is to establish,
for periods of three or four months, prestigious exhibitions in Mons, Theatre, music, popular culture, 15:00
perpetuating what has been done in territories Mons, the Big Eight and the Great West, said Elio Di Rupo Opening ceremony of the commemorative monument to Price in Ville-sur-Haine
the mayor. (Le Roeulx)
The town of Le Roeulx inaugurates a new memorial in honor of Price soldier near where he fall in 1918. A
commemorative ceremony in his honor will be held on site.
17:00
Commemorations in Casteau (Soignies)
The City of Soignies wants to organize a ceremony where Canadian troops stopped when the bell rang at
the armistice November 11, 1918 at 11:00. This place is very symbolic because it is exactly where the first
skirmish between the British and the Germans broke out August 22, 1914.
20:00
Major concerts in Mons City center
When we speak of the Armistice and the liberation of our city, the first words that come to mind are those of
the party. Therefore, we want to organize on the Main Square in Mons and around, the dances emphasizing
Canadian artists. Two ambiances are envisaged: one in a deco type “guinguette” with French song imported
directly from Quebec; the second offering pop-rock concerts.
The commemoration of 2014
In August 2014, the city of Mons has organized Two events are significant: first the ceremony
and collaborated on several commemorations on its of 4 August at the military cemetery of St.
territory. She gained excellent expertise in organizing Symphorien organized by the British Government.
such events. The qualities of organization and It was broadcast live on BBC and gathered the
compliance were highlighted by all the stakeholders. royal families of Britain and Belgium, as well as
Furthermore, the hosting of the citizens of Mons various representatives of the soldiers buried in the
scored significantly the number of foreign visitor will cemetery. On the other hand, the ceremony of 23
gather in the footsteps of their forefathers. August organized by the City of Mons. It brought
together several thousand people at the various
The City also beyond commemorations highlighted commemorations, all ending with a “projection /
its cultural activities in memory whether in schools, mapping” on the main square in Mons recounting the
museums, libraries or cultural centre. It’s all a story of a British soldier at the beginning of the Great
community that has engaged in projects related to the War.
memory of the Great War.
The commemorations of 2018
Centenary of the Liberation of Mons by Canadians
In November 2018, the city of Mons, in collaboration with the municipalities of Quiévrain, of Roeulx
and Soignies, wants to make an impression in worthily commemorating the centenary of its liberation by
Canadian troops.
In 2015, Mons was European Capital of Culture and in 2018, the city will recreate the special atmosphere
through a “cultural Biennale” prestigious exhibitions, cultural events, concerts, theater productions ...
enliven three months festivities.
The commemorations of the liberation of Mons and the centenary of the Armistice enroll directly in this
biennial, because the citizens of Mons wish to thank those who a century ago, fought risking their lives to
defend our freedoms and our rights.
The wish of the city of Mons is to organize jointly with Canada and its people these commemorative
festivities. Symbolically, Mons represents for the Commonwealth troops the beginning and end of the Great
War. For Canada, the “The Pursuit to Mons” is the symbol of emancipation and of Canadian identity. We
bet that these commemorations can be, for both of our nations, a special time of fellowship and communion
of the people having the freedom enshrined in their veins.
The Canadian liberators The Mons Memorial Museum
A place of history in the heart of a memory area
During the last months of the war, Allied forces
advancing on all fronts. Canadians deplore over In the footsteps of the Canadian Expeditionary Force, come to discover the history of the Great War in
40,000 killed and wounded since August are Europe. November 11, 1918, Canadian troops liberate Mons ending more than a hundred days of offensive. A
approaching Mons. It’s called “The Hundred wind of freedom blowing across the city after four years of occupation. Mons becomes a symbol.
Days”, from August 4 to 11 November 1918, with
the victorious thrust of Mons. More than just an exhibition, the Mons Memorial Museum immerses you in the daily lives of men and women
who lived through two world wars in Belgium, particularly in the region of Mons. The city experienced many
The German army, though beaten, gives a hard battles in its history. In the twentieth century, its inhabitants have the two occasions, live under the yoke of
rearguard battle by retreating to Mons. Canadian occupation. On more than 3000m² dedicated to memory, hundreds of original pieces, authentic testimonies,
troops take Valenciennes after a costly two-day audio, video and interactive content enlighten you on these difficult moments of our history.
battle and finally reach the outskirts of Mons on 10
November. Outstanding collections
There are rumors that the war will end soon Mons preserves over 5,000 pieces of military history from the two world wars. 500 of them are related to the
but General Currie ordered to take the city. So history of Canada in the Great War. Bequeathed by veterans or found on the battlefield, these objects unveil
Canadian troops make their way to the morning of the harsh realities of war. The Mons Memorial Museum also keeps hundreds of photographs, posters and
11 November. Belgian civilians welcome them as documents.
liberators. Lieutenant-General Sir Arthur Currie,
Major-General Loomis and General Clark brigade Some exceptional pieces
will be made honorary citizens of the city of Mons
to thank them for the liberation of the city. Among the material evidence of the past include particularly symbolic pieces: the first headstone of Private
George Price, the last Canadian killed in combat, a flag of the 3rd Canadian Division bequeathed by Major-
November 15, 1918, a grand ceremony in honor of General Loomis at the liberation of the city, the staff of flag of General Sir Arthur Currie, Canadian or drums
Canadian troops takes place on the main square in bequeathed after the conflict.
Mons where the Canadian Corps officers review the
troops. The last gun of the Great War
In 1998, William Fraser, former Canadian medic August 15, 1918, the Canadian Corps bequeathed to the city of Mons two canons. One of them exposed to the
stretcher-bearer, is made honorary citizen of the city Mons Memorial Museum, took the last shot of the conflict. The other also participated in the recent artillery
of Mons: he was the last survivor who participated exchanges against the German army, in the evening of November 10, 1918.
in the liberation of the city.
George Lawrence Price, the last George Lawrence Price is born December 2, 1892 in Kings County, Nova Scotia. In the fall of 1917, he works as a farm laborer in the province of Saskatchewan when he enlisted in the Canadian Expeditionary Force on 15 October. He is 24 years old. After completing basic training in Regina, he is sent abroad and finally joins the 28th Canadian Infantry Battalion. He takes part in the fighting during the Allied offensives during the fall of 1918. November 11, 1918, he is with other members of a company of the 28th battalion in the village of Havré (Mons). The patrol cross the Central Canal to arrive in the village of Ville-sur-Haine (Le Roeulx) to inspect some houses. George Price is shot by a German sniper while spring on the street. He dies just minutes before the official time of the Armistice, at 10:58. He is considered as the last Commonwealth soldier to be killed on the Western Front. He is buried at the military cemetery of St. Symphorien. At the same place where he was killed, a monument is being redeveloped for commemorations of 2018. A school of Ville-sur- Haine was named “School George Price” in 2015.
Heritage of 1914-18 in Mons The heritage of 14-18 in Mons area
The porch of City Hall
Commemorative plaque of the liberation of the city Monument of Casteau - Chaussée de Bruxelles 1 (Soignies)
of Mons by Canadian troops the 11th of November Monument of the stop of the Canadian troops after the liberation of the city of Mons the 11th November
1918. 1918.
The military cemetery of St-Symphorien Commemorative plaque of Georges Price
Unique ans symbolic place, this is where are buried
the remains of the first British soldier and the soldier In 1958, Colonel Mc Intyre, who commanded the infantry battalion of George Price, erected a memorial
of the Commonwealth (the Canadian G. Price) died plaque on the facade of the house in front of which Georges Price was killed. He is the last Commonwealth
during the First World War. It also has the distinction soldier fell under enemy fire of the Great War; he was shot two minutes before the end of the hostilities. In
of containing an almost equal number of British and 1980, following the enlargement of the canal, the house was demolished and the plaque placed next to the
German graves. new bridge named after George Price.
The military Cemetery of St-Symphorien was built Commemorative Monument of Georges Price (under construction)
by the Germans in 1916. The only requirement issued At the initiative if the Municipal Authority if the City of Le Roeulx, a working group was set up in May
by the owner of the land was that this cemetery is for 2014 to produce a new monument to the Canadian soldier picture protecting the local population. George
both nations that participated in the Battle of Mons Price is therefore also included an example of archetype in the sense that it alone represents the courage
23 August 1914. This solution enabled to gather in and determination of the soldiers came to fight sometimes to death on Belgian territory. By then, our whole
the same necropolis all combatants, regardless of Belgian community who recognizes this man a model fighting beyond the borders in order to guarantee a
their nationality. better future.
The communal cemetery Because of these huge symbolic and emotional burdens carried by the figure of Privat Geroge Price, the
Mons is in the hands of the German army from 23 city of Le Roeulx wants to continue to honour his memory by offering him a place worthy to homage of the
August 1914 until his release by the Canadian corps great heroes of history and renewing completely is current memorial. Through this project, which would
the 11th of November 1918. In 1914, the military showing our gratitude to the Commonwealth commitment during the First World War, we strive to promote
authority in place decided to create a northern the memory if tourism participated duties of civic and educational enrichment while contributing to the
extension of the communal cemetery of Mons. economic and cultural vitality.
The communal cemetery of Quiévrain
In this extension will be buried the military victims
of all nationalities. When the town was liberated, Quiévrain, on the border with France, is the first municipality of Belgium liberated by Canadian troops
then Canadians decided to open a new cemetery, during the 1918 offensive. This cemetery brings the bodies of dozens of Canadians fell under enemy fire on
right front of it. All the bodies of the soldiers will be 6 and 7 November some day before the Armistice.
consolidated in the cemetery of Mons, reorganized
after the war by two British architects Edwin Luytens
and Sir William Harrison Cowlishaw.
The Bascule
The memorial of the Bascule is that monument with
two pilliars in memory to the victims of the Battle
of Mons on 23 August 1914 and the liberation of the
city the 11 November 1918.
The institute of Hygiene and Bacteriology
A plaque shows the various bullet holes drawn by
Canadian troops in the liberation of the city.Heritage of 1914-18 in Mons The heritage of 14-18 in Mons area
The porch of City Hall
Commemorative plaque of the liberation of the city Monument of Casteau - Chaussée de Bruxelles 1 (Soignies)
of Mons by Canadian troops the 11th of November Monument of the stop of the Canadian troops after the liberation of the city of Mons the 11th November
1918. 1918.
The military cemetery of St-Symphorien Commemorative plaque of Georges Price
Unique ans symbolic place, this is where are buried
the remains of the first British soldier and the soldier In 1958, Colonel Mc Intyre, who commanded the infantry battalion of George Price, erected a memorial
of the Commonwealth (the Canadian G. Price) died plaque on the facade of the house in front of which Georges Price was killed. He is the last Commonwealth
during the First World War. It also has the distinction soldier fell under enemy fire of the Great War; he was shot two minutes before the end of the hostilities. In
of containing an almost equal number of British and 1980, following the enlargement of the canal, the house was demolished and the plaque placed next to the
German graves. new bridge named after George Price.
The military Cemetery of St-Symphorien was built Commemorative Monument of Georges Price (under construction)
by the Germans in 1916. The only requirement issued At the initiative if the Municipal Authority if the City of Le Roeulx, a working group was set up in May
by the owner of the land was that this cemetery is for 2014 to produce a new monument to the Canadian soldier picture protecting the local population. George
both nations that participated in the Battle of Mons Price is therefore also included an example of archetype in the sense that it alone represents the courage
23 August 1914. This solution enabled to gather in and determination of the soldiers came to fight sometimes to death on Belgian territory. By then, our whole
the same necropolis all combatants, regardless of Belgian community who recognizes this man a model fighting beyond the borders in order to guarantee a
their nationality. better future.
The communal cemetery Because of these huge symbolic and emotional burdens carried by the figure of Privat Geroge Price, the
Mons is in the hands of the German army from 23 city of Le Roeulx wants to continue to honour his memory by offering him a place worthy to homage of the
August 1914 until his release by the Canadian corps great heroes of history and renewing completely is current memorial. Through this project, which would
the 11th of November 1918. In 1914, the military showing our gratitude to the Commonwealth commitment during the First World War, we strive to promote
authority in place decided to create a northern the memory if tourism participated duties of civic and educational enrichment while contributing to the
extension of the communal cemetery of Mons. economic and cultural vitality.
The communal cemetery of Quiévrain
In this extension will be buried the military victims
of all nationalities. When the town was liberated, Quiévrain, on the border with France, is the first municipality of Belgium liberated by Canadian troops
then Canadians decided to open a new cemetery, during the 1918 offensive. This cemetery brings the bodies of dozens of Canadians fell under enemy fire on
right front of it. All the bodies of the soldiers will be 6 and 7 November some day before the Armistice.
consolidated in the cemetery of Mons, reorganized
after the war by two British architects Edwin Luytens
and Sir William Harrison Cowlishaw.
The Bascule
The memorial of the Bascule is that monument with
two pilliars in memory to the victims of the Battle
of Mons on 23 August 1914 and the liberation of the
city the 11 November 1918.
The institute of Hygiene and Bacteriology
A plaque shows the various bullet holes drawn by
Canadian troops in the liberation of the city.George Lawrence Price, the last George Lawrence Price is born December 2, 1892 in Kings County, Nova Scotia. In the fall of 1917, he works as a farm laborer in the province of Saskatchewan when he enlisted in the Canadian Expeditionary Force on 15 October. He is 24 years old. After completing basic training in Regina, he is sent abroad and finally joins the 28th Canadian Infantry Battalion. He takes part in the fighting during the Allied offensives during the fall of 1918. November 11, 1918, he is with other members of a company of the 28th battalion in the village of Havré (Mons). The patrol cross the Central Canal to arrive in the village of Ville-sur-Haine (Le Roeulx) to inspect some houses. George Price is shot by a German sniper while spring on the street. He dies just minutes before the official time of the Armistice, at 10:58. He is considered as the last Commonwealth soldier to be killed on the Western Front. He is buried at the military cemetery of St. Symphorien. At the same place where he was killed, a monument is being redeveloped for commemorations of 2018. A school of Ville-sur- Haine was named “School George Price” in 2015.
The Canadian liberators The Mons Memorial Museum
A place of history in the heart of a memory area
During the last months of the war, Allied forces
advancing on all fronts. Canadians deplore over In the footsteps of the Canadian Expeditionary Force, come to discover the history of the Great War in
40,000 killed and wounded since August are Europe. November 11, 1918, Canadian troops liberate Mons ending more than a hundred days of offensive. A
approaching Mons. It’s called “The Hundred wind of freedom blowing across the city after four years of occupation. Mons becomes a symbol.
Days”, from August 4 to 11 November 1918, with
the victorious thrust of Mons. More than just an exhibition, the Mons Memorial Museum immerses you in the daily lives of men and women
who lived through two world wars in Belgium, particularly in the region of Mons. The city experienced many
The German army, though beaten, gives a hard battles in its history. In the twentieth century, its inhabitants have the two occasions, live under the yoke of
rearguard battle by retreating to Mons. Canadian occupation. On more than 3000m² dedicated to memory, hundreds of original pieces, authentic testimonies,
troops take Valenciennes after a costly two-day audio, video and interactive content enlighten you on these difficult moments of our history.
battle and finally reach the outskirts of Mons on 10
November. Outstanding collections
There are rumors that the war will end soon Mons preserves over 5,000 pieces of military history from the two world wars. 500 of them are related to the
but General Currie ordered to take the city. So history of Canada in the Great War. Bequeathed by veterans or found on the battlefield, these objects unveil
Canadian troops make their way to the morning of the harsh realities of war. The Mons Memorial Museum also keeps hundreds of photographs, posters and
11 November. Belgian civilians welcome them as documents.
liberators. Lieutenant-General Sir Arthur Currie,
Major-General Loomis and General Clark brigade Some exceptional pieces
will be made honorary citizens of the city of Mons
to thank them for the liberation of the city. Among the material evidence of the past include particularly symbolic pieces: the first headstone of Private
George Price, the last Canadian killed in combat, a flag of the 3rd Canadian Division bequeathed by Major-
November 15, 1918, a grand ceremony in honor of General Loomis at the liberation of the city, the staff of flag of General Sir Arthur Currie, Canadian or drums
Canadian troops takes place on the main square in bequeathed after the conflict.
Mons where the Canadian Corps officers review the
troops. The last gun of the Great War
In 1998, William Fraser, former Canadian medic August 15, 1918, the Canadian Corps bequeathed to the city of Mons two canons. One of them exposed to the
stretcher-bearer, is made honorary citizen of the city Mons Memorial Museum, took the last shot of the conflict. The other also participated in the recent artillery
of Mons: he was the last survivor who participated exchanges against the German army, in the evening of November 10, 1918.
in the liberation of the city.The commemoration of 2014
In August 2014, the city of Mons has organized Two events are significant: first the ceremony
and collaborated on several commemorations on its of 4 August at the military cemetery of St.
territory. She gained excellent expertise in organizing Symphorien organized by the British Government.
such events. The qualities of organization and It was broadcast live on BBC and gathered the
compliance were highlighted by all the stakeholders. royal families of Britain and Belgium, as well as
Furthermore, the hosting of the citizens of Mons various representatives of the soldiers buried in the
scored significantly the number of foreign visitor will cemetery. On the other hand, the ceremony of 23
gather in the footsteps of their forefathers. August organized by the City of Mons. It brought
together several thousand people at the various
The City also beyond commemorations highlighted commemorations, all ending with a “projection /
its cultural activities in memory whether in schools, mapping” on the main square in Mons recounting the
museums, libraries or cultural centre. It’s all a story of a British soldier at the beginning of the Great
community that has engaged in projects related to the War.
memory of the Great War.
The commemorations of 2018
Centenary of the Liberation of Mons by Canadians
In November 2018, the city of Mons, in collaboration with the municipalities of Quiévrain, of Roeulx
and Soignies, wants to make an impression in worthily commemorating the centenary of its liberation by
Canadian troops.
In 2015, Mons was European Capital of Culture and in 2018, the city will recreate the special atmosphere
through a “cultural Biennale” prestigious exhibitions, cultural events, concerts, theater productions ...
enliven three months festivities.
The commemorations of the liberation of Mons and the centenary of the Armistice enroll directly in this
biennial, because the citizens of Mons wish to thank those who a century ago, fought risking their lives to
defend our freedoms and our rights.
The wish of the city of Mons is to organize jointly with Canada and its people these commemorative
festivities. Symbolically, Mons represents for the Commonwealth troops the beginning and end of the Great
War. For Canada, the “The Pursuit to Mons” is the symbol of emancipation and of Canadian identity. We
bet that these commemorations can be, for both of our nations, a special time of fellowship and communion
of the people having the freedom enshrined in their veins.2 Million visitors in 2015! Saturday program November 10, 2018
Mons 2015, European Capital of Culture, has been an undeniable success with more than 2 millions
visitors and a remarkable qualitative success. 10:00
Commemoration in Quiévrain
We note this exceptional year, the opening party on 24 January drew 100.000 people in Mons, as 455.000
people, including 180.000 for the Van Gogh exhibition, visited exhibitions and museums open Mons in The municipality of Quiévrain first place stride by Canadian troops when they enter Belgian territory, wants
early April 2015. to organize a commemoration and a parade with these regiments.
The attendance for project led by Mons 2015 is 2.136.700 people. Some 20.000 people participated in the
closing ceremony on 12 December. 12 :00
Commemorative ceremony at the military cemetery of St-Symphorien
3.000 events!
A ceremony organized jointly with the SHAPE [Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe] and the
Attendance at the Tourist Office « VisitMons » has increased by over 470% compared to 2014. Mons 2015
city of Mons, to remember the victims of the First World War, from the first to the last fallen soldier
has programmed some 3000 events in and around Mons, including 48 cities and 50 partners’ institutions,
Commonwealth.
5000 artists including 1500 local artist have been engaged in various project.
Mons 2015 bounces also from autumn 2018 in the form of biennial. “The objective is to establish,
for periods of three or four months, prestigious exhibitions in Mons, Theatre, music, popular culture, 15:00
perpetuating what has been done in territories Mons, the Big Eight and the Great West, said Elio Di Rupo Opening ceremony of the commemorative monument to Price in Ville-sur-Haine
the mayor. (Le Roeulx)
The town of Le Roeulx inaugurates a new memorial in honor of Price soldier near where he fall in 1918. A
commemorative ceremony in his honor will be held on site.
17:00
Commemorations in Casteau (Soignies)
The City of Soignies wants to organize a ceremony where Canadian troops stopped when the bell rang at
the armistice November 11, 1918 at 11:00. This place is very symbolic because it is exactly where the first
skirmish between the British and the Germans broke out August 22, 1914.
20:00
Major concerts in Mons City center
When we speak of the Armistice and the liberation of our city, the first words that come to mind are those of
the party. Therefore, we want to organize on the Main Square in Mons and around, the dances emphasizing
Canadian artists. Two ambiances are envisaged: one in a deco type “guinguette” with French song imported
directly from Quebec; the second offering pop-rock concerts.Mons, city with four masterpieces
Sunday program November 11, 2018 recognized by UNESCO
At dawn The City of Mons, population approximately repository for all paper knowledge and is another
March of Remembrance 100,000, was officially designated the Cultural UNESCO Heritage site.
Capital of Wallonia in 2002 and the European
The aim of this walk is to follow the step of the Canadians soldiers from their arrival on the territory of Cultural Capital in 2015. It is a city that Beyond its cultural and historical attributes Mons is a
Belgium to the liberation of the city of Mons. This activity is, as the walk of Nimègue, a performance of has considerable strengths in several areas. city turned toward the future.
more than 25 kilometre to accomplish in the morning from Quiévrain to Mons. It is specially organised The newly created Digital Innovation Valley has
for the military troops in Mons during the commemorations but also for the citizens who want to Mons is the capital of the Province of Hainaut. As a attracted companies such as Google, Microsoft and
participate. university city, home to the Université de Mons, it IBM. The INITIALIS Sciences Park, includes dozens
is also the administrative and judicial centre for the of companies specializing in new technologies in
province. Today the city has largely consolidated and biochemistry, telecommunications, civil engineering
11:00 and computing. It hosts two research centres, built
developed its role in the province (country) as a focal
Commemorative ceremony at the Cemetery of Mons point in terms of heritage, culture and tourism. The with backing from the University of Mons and The
city is welcoming and has a thriving commercial area University of Louvain-la-Neuve.
in both downtown Mons and the Grand Prés area.
Every year the city of Mons organized a ceremony at the municipal cemetery in honor of all the men who
fell during the various world conflicts. The walls of this historic city house several major
historical heritage sites including St Waudru
We wanted to organize our ceremonies in the afternoon to allow all persons to be present (the Belgian Collegiate Church, a gothic town hall and a baroque
Federal Government organizes an Armistice Day ceremony on the same day at 11:00 am in Brussels). belfry. The belfry stands 87 meters high and is the
only baroque belfry in Belgium. These sites are
recognized as World Heritage sites by UNESCO.
15:30 In addition to these sites, UNESCO also recognizes
Parade of liberation and memorial ceremony on the Main Square in Mons leading environmental accomplishments such as the
mining at Neolithic Spiennes (SILEX’S).
As in November 1918, we want to offer a big parade with all Canadian regiments heirs of the regiments Mon’s third masterpiece of world heritage is the
that participated in the “Pursuit to Mons” to remember their passage on the Main Square. festival of the Doudou. This historical event dates back
to the fourteenth century. The event is derived from
The composition of the parade would be heterogeneous, first Canadian regiments followed by their popular religious traditions. One religious tradition
regimental band and, successively, reenactors, the 5th Royal Lancer and a delegation of the Belgian held annually on Trinity Sunday, is the Procession
armed forces. of the Car d’Or or Golden Chariot. Following the
procession is the legendary battle called “Lumeçon”.
This battle pits Saint George against a dragon. It is
held in the centre of Mons in front of tens of thousands
of spectators and is broadcast on local television.
Culturally, the performing arts are growing thanks to
the cultural Center le Manège The fine arts centre is
called BAM (should write out what acronym means). It
offers world class art exhibitions recently showcasing
works by Warhol and Van Gogh. Duesbeg Museum
displays a variety of historical clocks that are envied
around the world. The introduction of two new
museums in 2015, the Mons Memorial Museum and
the Doudou Museum or Arthothèque, have enriched
the city’s museums. And, how can we forget the
Mundaneum, commonly known as “A Paper Google”
museum. It is a16:30
Military music concert
After the ceremonies, the music of the regiments would organize a concert of military music bands together
the different regiments.
17:00
Carillon Concerts
The highlight of the celebrations, the carillon of Mons, located in the belfry of the sixteenth century, and
Ottawa, the peace tower built at the end of the Great War, could simultaneously play common tunes, played
on Mons by the bell ringer at the arrival of Canadian troops in 1918. When it is 17:00 to Mons, it is 11:00 to
Ottawa.
Our desire would be to have the Ottawa ceremonies broadcast on a giant screen in Mons and conversely,
those of Mons in Ottawa broadcast on giant screen.
18:00
Projection / Mapping on the Main Square
This is a projection on the facade of City Hall Mons (XV century), with a video projection-mapping
technology. The aim is to trace the history of the Canadian expeditionary forces Europe, until the liberation
of Mons, narrated by the life sacrificed prism of George Price soldier (see elsewhere).
The overall objective is to create a true immersion in the lives of Canadian soldiers. performing artists also
will interact with the projection.Ø Elio Di Rupo, State Minister and Mayor of the city of Mons
In November of 2018, The City of Mons will become the historical focal point for Commemorative
Ceremonies for the end of World War I.
It is in Mons, that British and German armies first met in armed conflict on the 23rd of August 1914, thus
commencing the First World War. It was not until four years later, in November 2018, that Canadian
troops liberated our city bringing WWI to an end.
Consequently Mons has become a historic and symbolic place for Great War Centennial Ceremonies.
On November 11, 2018, Mons will host a festival of events to celebrate the end of World War I . Mons
would especially like to thank Canada by “colouring the city” in the colours of the nation that liberated
us. The City of Mons would like to acknowledge and commemorate the sacrifices that this young nation
made to bring about the end of the Great War. Armistice Day, the 11th of November 1918, marks the end
of the greatest conflict of the twentieth century.
H.E. Denis Robert, Ambassador of Canada
It was at Mons, on 11 November 1918, that the First World War ended for Canadian soldiers, after 4
years of fighting and immense sacrifices that changed Canada forever. More than 14,000 Canadian
soldiers died in Belgium between 1915 and 1918. The last of those soldiers to die was George Price,
killed 2 minutes before Armistice at Ville-sur-Haine, a few kilometers from Mons.
In the course of the last week of the First World War, the Canadian army liberated the entire region of
Mons, from Quiévrain to Casteau. This “Pursuit to Mons” was part of the “Hundred Days of Canada,”
a series of offensives in 1918 on the Western Front during which the Canadian corps spearheaded the
armies of the British Empire.
The First World War was an important landmark in Canada’s evolution towards nationhood. In 1914,
Canada entered the war as a self-governing dominion. Canada’s accomplishments on the battlefields of
Ypres, Vimy, Passchendaele and Mons have contributed - both at home and abroad – to respect for and
recognition of Canada for its commitment and leadership. This new reputation earned Canada the right
to affix its own signature on the Treaty of Versailles and to become a founding member of the League of
Nations. National status had been achieved.
As Ambassador of Canada, I am deeply moved by the intention of the City of Mons and of its Mayor,
Mr Elio Di Rupo, to honour Canada in Mons in November 2018 and I welcome those initiatives that will
contribute to the lustre of this major commemoration.Contacts and information Corentin Rousman Commemorations Coordinator for the City of Mons 22 Grand’Place, 7000 Mons, Belgique +32 (0) 478 / 41 76 89 corentin.rousman@ville.mons.be www.mons.be Artwork : Thierry Nisolle thierry.nisolle@ville.mons.be
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