Preserving the Past: Crysler’s Farm Battlefield Memorial Restored

SLPC and Partner Recognition Ceremony Celebrates Restoration of Crysler’s Farm Battlefield Memorial Park

Morrisburg, ON —Today, the St. Lawrence Parks Commission (SLPC) welcomed partners, dignitaries, and community members to a special ceremony recognizing the completion of restoration work at Crysler’s Farm Battlefield Memorial Park, a National Historic Site of Canada.

The event marked the revitalization of the 130-year-old monument, honouring the legacy of the Battle of Crysler’s Farm, a pivotal moment in the War of 1812. The restoration project was led by SLPC in partnership with the Friends of Crysler’s Farm Battlefield, Tomlinson Construction Ltd., and supported by David Brown Construction Ltd.

“This was more than a construction milestone; it’s a tribute to our shared history, a reflection of our values today, and a recognition of the investment into the future of this remarkable site,” said Honourable Bob Runciman, Chair of the St. Lawrence Parks Commission. “I’m incredibly proud of the many partnerships that made this project possible. This restoration is a testament to what we can achieve through collaboration.”

This phase of restoration began in late 2024 and was completed in October 2025. Improvements focused on enhancing both the structural integrity of the site and the overall guest experience. Crews cleaned the monument and capstones, repaved the East and West walkways and improved drainage on site. Electrical systems were upgraded, the historic cannons repainted, flagpole mechanisms were repaired to support ceremonial use, and benches were installed throughout the site.

“The Friends of Crysler’s Farm Battlefield are proud to have supported this important restoration,” said Dave Conners, President. “This site holds deep significance in Canada’s early history, and we’re pleased to see it preserved and enhanced for future generations.”

The project was made possible through SLPC investment and generous in-kind contributions from Tomlinson Construction Ltd. and David Brown Construction Ltd. Restoration work was completed by SLPC maintenance staff, whose expertise and dedication were instrumental in the project’s success, in consultation with the Friends of Crysler’s Farm Battlefield. This project advances goals outlined in SLPC’s Strategic Plan, Strengthening our Foundation for a Sustainable Future (2021–2026), including strengthening connections with partners and the local community, supporting infrastructure revitalization, and promoting land, cultural, and historical stewardship.

Upper Canada Village will reopen for its main season in May 2026, with the Battlefield Memorial Building welcoming guests in July and August. Guests are encouraged to explore and learn more about the pivotal role the Battle of Crysler’s Farm played in shaping Canada’s history.

About St. Lawrence Parks Commission
The St. Lawrence Parks Commission, an agency of the Government of Ontario, operates facilities stretching from Kingston to the Quebec border, including Upper Canada Village, Fort Henry National Historic Site of Canada (and part of the Rideau Canal UNESCO World Heritage Site designation); Kingston Pen Tours, Crysler Park Marina, Upper Canada Golf Course, Upper Canada Migratory Bird Sanctuary and 10 campgrounds and 6 beach day-use picnic areas including the Long Sault and Thousand Islands Parkways.

Since 2019, the St. Lawrence Parks Commission has undertaken a series of major infrastructure improvements, culminating in a historic $82.2 million investment announced in 2025. These upgrades are part of a multi-year revitalization strategy aimed at modernizing facilities, improving environmental sustainability, and enhancing guest experiences across Eastern Ontario.

To learn more, visit www.parks.on.ca