In 1997, Ireland and the countries of the Irish Diaspora around the world marked the 150th anniversary of the worst year of the Famine. In Canada, the Federal Government declared Grosse Isle a National Park and a permanent memorial to the 15,000 Famine immigrants who died and were buried on the Island when it served as a quarantine station. The Island now features a beautiful memorial to the Famine victims.
In Toronto, a commemorative plaque was erected at Metro Hall, at King and John Street, adjacent to the siting of the Famine fever sheds. Throughout Ireland there was a collective grieving for the massive loss of life from starvation and disease. Many significant memorials, parks and public sculptures were dedicated during the course of 1997.
Ireland Park in Toronto will create a lasting memorial to Irish Famine emigrants. It will also recognize and celebrate the success of the survivors in overcoming such adversity.
