The World’s Tallest Tin Soldier Historic Landmark in New Westminster, BC

Standing proudly on the River Market Promenade, the World’s Tallest Tin Soldier has become one of New Westminster’s most recognizable landmarks. This larger-than-life figure blends community pride, artistic craftsmanship, and complex history, making it more than just a photo stop for visitors along the Fraser River.

A Landmark with Military Roots

The Tin Soldier was modeled after a Sergeant Major of the Royal Engineers Columbia Detachment, known locally as the Sappers. These engineers played a pivotal role in surveying and establishing the early city of New Westminster in the mid-19th century. The statue serves as a reminder of this military presence, but also opens dialogue about the impacts of colonization on Indigenous peoples whose land this city occupies.

Community Origins and Dedication

Commissioned by the Simon Fraser Society for Community Living (now Kinsight), the Tin Soldier was first unveiled on November 29, 2000 at the Royal Westminster Regiment Armoury during the inaugural Festival of Trees. The event raised funds to support children with developmental disabilities.

A year later, the sculpture was disassembled and relocated to its current waterfront site at Westminster Quay (now River Market). On February 14, 2001, the city hosted a dedication ceremony where a time capsule—filled with contributions from local children and community members—was placed inside the Tin Soldier. That capsule is scheduled to be opened in 2025, creating anticipation for what stories and messages will be revealed.

Built with Skill and Generosity

The Tin Soldier was designed and built by Austin Metal Fabricators, with all labour and materials donated by the Sheet Metal Workers Local 280 and SMACNA-BC. Towering over the promenade, it holds the Guinness World Record as the World’s Largest Tin Soldier, symbolizing both craftsmanship and community spirit.

In 2011, Kinsight officially gifted the statue to the City of New Westminster, solidifying its status as a permanent piece of public art.

Re-imagining Through Indigenous Perspectives

While the Tin Soldier has long represented kindness and inclusion, its military model also reflects a colonial past that harmed Indigenous communities. On February 14, 2025, Kwantlen artist Brandon Gabriel offered a creative response: through a powerful light projection, he reimagined the statue as the World’s Largest Coast Salish Welcome Figure. This transformation highlighted the enduring presence of Coast Salish peoples and called attention to the city’s path toward reconciliation.

The installation continues to spark important conversations about history, visibility, and cultural recognition on unceded Halkomelem-speaking territories.

Land Acknowledgement

The City of New Westminster recognizes that it sits on the unceded and unsurrendered lands of the Halkomelem-speaking peoples. Colonialism attempted to erase Indigenous histories and connections to this land, but the city is committed to reconciliation, relationship-building, and acknowledging its history of harm.

Visiting the Tin Soldier

• Location: River Market Promenade, Downtown New Westminster

• Installation Year: 2000

• Status: Permanent Public Artwork

• Material: Sheet Metal

• Neighbourhood: Downtown New Westminster

The Tin Soldier is just steps away from the River Market, Westminster Pier Park, and the New Westminster SkyTrain Station, making it an easy stop on a day trip to the city. Visitors often pose for photos with the towering figure, stroll the riverside boardwalk, or explore the shops and restaurants nearby.

Why Visit?

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a fan of quirky roadside attractions, or someone seeking a meaningful conversation about reconciliation and community art, the World’s Tallest Tin Soldier offers a unique experience. It embodies both celebration and reflection—a true New Westminster icon.

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