Just 97 years after Canada became a country, it adopted its defining symbol.
After flying the Red Ensign since the 1860s, Canada and Prime Minister Lester B. Pearson began the process in 1964 of resolving the issue of the lack of an official Canadian flag.
The 11-pointed maple leaf, with a red field and a white square at its centre and designed by Mount Allison University historian George Stanley, was selected as the country’s national symbol.
On Feb. 15, 1965, Canada’s new maple leaf flag was hoisted up poles around the country. A ceremony was held on Parliament Hill as the Red Ensign was ceremoniously lowered and sent to the archives, with nearly 10,000 people cheering as the new flag was raised up the mast.
The News is looking back at notable events from Medicine Hat and the world’s history as we enter our 141st publishing year.
Governor General Georges Vanier asked Canadians for unity under the nation’s new banner.
“I appeal to all Canadians to set aside pettiness, selfishness and intolerance where they may exist, and to cultivate a spirit of brotherhood and mutual confidence.
“I hope and pray that Canadians will in this way give an example of fraternal co-existence and that our flag will symbolize to each of us and to the world the unity of purpose and high resolve to which destiny beckons us.”
As the flag was raised to the top of the temporary pole at the bae of the Peace Tower, strains of O Canada rang out from loud speakers. Once it reached the highest point, the Peace Tower clock began striking 12 and was met with a wave of cheers.
Following the ceremony, Pearson said, “If Canada endures 1,000 years, this day ‘will always be remembered as a milestone in Canada’s national progress.'”
Locally, the Civic Finance Committee agreed to allow the Soroptimist Club to sell the maple leaf flag to other groups and organizations in Medicine Hat.
The club requested permission to raise funds to support a White Cross Centre, which helped rehabilitate former mental hospital patients.
