For several years following the World War I, the Port Hope chapter of the Imperial Order of the Daughters of the Empire devoted their time to raise funds for the design and construction of the Cenotaph. Classically inspired and with gothic touches, an unusual open arch crowns the top. In 1926 this impressive monument was unveiled. On the front of the memorial are inscribed, the names of the local men who died in the Great War, and the names of the historic battles are carved in the shaft for all to remember. Statues of peace adorn the memorial, looking out for the souls lost in the horrific battles. The names of those lost in World War II were added later, as was a small bronze plaque to acknowledge the Korean War.
The Cenotaph Beautification Project is financially supported by the Port Hope Legion. In 2018, work was completed on the monument to repair deteriorating lettering, surface cleaning and repairs to the cross-bed flower beds.
The revitalization of the Port Hope War Memorial Cenotaph supports the work of recognizing and honouring Veterans and current Armed Forces members.
