On Friday September 8, 2023, the Sharon Temple National Historic Site & Museum was proud to unveil the Hope & Truth Reflection Sculpture. In the summer of 2021, a historic 200-year-old sugar maple tree unfortunately fell on the grounds. Rather than discard this once living piece of the site’s long history, it was decided that the tree should be preserved in the form of a sculpture which would rest on the stump of the fallen tree.

The sculpture was designed by Anishinaabe artist Donald Chrétien and sculptor Shane Clodd, and throughout the design process we have consulted with the Chippewas of Georgina Island First Nation; we appreciate their guidance and wisdom. The 12-foot-tall tree was carved into a female hand gracefully holding an aluminum feather engraved with Indigenous pictographs which stands as a symbol of reflection and hope.  This almost two-year long project represents a commitment to support and encourage equitable partnerships amongst settlers and Indigenous people.

The second phase of the project includes a surrounding garden featuring the four sacred medicines: sweet grass, sage, cedar, and tobacco. Flanking the sculpture will be seven stones, each representing one of the Seven Grandfather Teachings: love, respect, bravery, truth, honesty, humility, and wisdom. Combined, the sculpture and garden will be a safe and welcoming space for community members to visit, learn and reflect.

On March 4th, 2024, the Sharon Temple National Historic Site & Museum is launching a fundraising campaign to raise $25,000 to complete the design and installation of the garden, stones, and educational panels surrounding the Hope & Truth Reflection Sculpture. Thanks to a generous grant, all donations up to $25,000 will be matched.  We are relying on the generosity of donors to bring this project to a close and to help us create a beautiful and welcoming space for all. 

The museum hopes that the addition of the Hope & Truth Reflection Sculpture and soon to be added surrounding garden will serve as a permanent reminder that Truth and Reconciliation is an on-going process; and that the area can provide a safe and welcoming space for community members to participate in that process.