Walter Seymour Allward, Sculptor: Creator of Toronto's Beautiful South African War Memorial Statue

Walter Allward is probably Canada's most respected sculptor. Even though Allward died many years ago, he lives on in his magnificent statue. And most significant paerhpas, is his iconic creation at Vimy Ridge, which took him eleven years to complete. It was finished in 1936 and unveiled by King Edward VIII.

Allward was born in 1876, and began as a carpenter's apprentice working for his father. He later served as an apprentice to the architectural firm, Gibson and Simpson and he also worked at the Toronto Brickworks in the Don Valley. Allward is said at an early age to have had a penchant for molding clay.

Allward was a predecesor of Emmanual Hahn. They both lived in Toronto and both sculpted their place into the hearts of Canadians. Walter's stunning
South African Campaign Memorial, looks silently down Toronto's University Avenue, and adds dignity and character to the city.

We are indebted to Richard, the creator of the Toronto Then and Now blog who has put together this marvellous collection of pictures. Please click here to visit Richard's site.