Hey there! Join me on a visual journey along Placentia’s brand-new walking trail. I’ve snapped 20 awesome photos, starting from behind the mall and winding all the way to Lions Manor. Trust me, this trail is a stunner—definitely the most beautiful one I’ve ever walked.
Want to see it in action? I’ve got you covered! I recorded a video for my YouTube channel where I take you along for the ride. I chat about the highlights while giving you close-ups of the spots that made me stop and soak it all in.
Curious to see the whole 14-minute adventure? Just click the YouTube link below and enjoy the walk with me!
History has a way of standing still in Placentia. While the tides at the Great Beach come and go, and the seasons shift over the hills of Jerseyside, there are anchors in this town that remain unmoved. These are the monuments—the silent sentinels that hold the stories of the past, the endurance of the people, and a legacy that carries forward.
Standing before the black granite of the cenotaph, the words “Lest We Forget” aren’t just an inscription; they are a solemn promise. For a town as old and storied as Placentia, these four historic monuments serve as more than just landmarks. They are the physical heartbeat of heritage, etched in stone so that the names and the sacrifices of those who came before are never lost to the fog of time.
This series for Spotlight on Placentia takes a closer look at these four pillars of the community. From the stories of service to the memories of the families who built this place, the goal is to explore what it means to live in a town where history is literally written in the stones beneath one’s feet.
The Sacred Heart Parish War Memorial
The Heart of Remembrance in Placentia
Standing in the shadow of the church, this marble monument is a map of Placentia’s history on the world stage. While it stands silent today, the inscriptions tell the story of the young men from this parish who never came home from the Great War.
The Sacrifice of the Parish Sons
The heart of this memorial is the long list of names carved into the stone. When you look closely, you see the true cost to the community. Recurring names like Collins, O’Brien, and O’Reilly remind us that some homes in the parish lost multiple sons.
Many of these men, like James E. Croucher and Thomas J. Delaney, were just 19 years old when they left the quiet of the coast for a world they could barely imagine.
From the Great Beach to the World
Marked by the Royal Newfoundland Regiment’s Caribou, the monument tracks the journey of these men across the globe, marking the battles where they stood—from the legend of Gallipoli and the heartbreak of Beaumont Hamel to the final pushes at Monchy and Cambrai. These distant places became a permanent part of Placentia’s story.
A Promise Kept
The face of the marble serves as the town’s eternal promise, erected to “Perpetuate the memory of the young men of this parish.” It is a solemn anchor that connects the 1914–1918 dates to the peace Placentia enjoys today.
Placentia’s Legacy in Stone: The Placentia Bay Veterans Cenotaph
This monument stands in solemn commemoration of the sacrifices made by the hundreds of men and women from the 156 former and current communities of Placentia Bay. It serves as a powerful connection to our shared history, honoring those who answered the call of duty from across this vast region.
Whether they served in the World Wars or subsequent conflicts, their legacy is etched here in stone. For the many families with roots in the bay—including the American veterans who served at Argentia and chose to make Placentia their permanent home—this site is a vital anchor of remembrance. Under the simple, enduring words “Lest We Forget / N’oublions Jamais,” we honor the endurance of our people and the peace they secured for us all.
The Star of the Sea Association Memorial
This monument, standing in the shadow of the Star of the Sea Hall, holds a unique place in Placentia’s “Legacy in Stone.” It was placed here by the Star of the Sea Association to perpetuate the memory of its own members who served in the Great Wars.
It represents a specific bond—one of faith and fraternity. For the families of Placentia, this stone serves as a reminder that the call to service reached into every club, every parish, and every home. By honoring the members of the Association who became soldiers and sailors, this memorial ensures that their contribution to both their community and their country is never forgotten. It stands as a testament to a brotherhood that extended from the shores of Placentia Bay to the battlefields of Europe.
The Royal Canadian Legion Memorial: Holding the Torch High
Standing directly across the road from the Star of the Sea, the Royal Canadian Legion Memorial is a powerful tribute in polished black granite. Marked by the Legion crest and the timeless words of John McCrae, this archway represents the enduring commitment of Royal Canadian Legion Branch 33 to the veterans of our community.
This site is where the history of service is made physical. It honours those who served in World War I, World War II, the Korean War, Peacekeeping Duties, and Afghanistan. The monument, along with the nearby Legion markers, serves as a permanent reminder of the “torch” passed down to us. It is a place of deep respect, ensuring that the names of our local heroes remain a living part of Placentia’s story for every generation that passes by.
”I was so excited last night when I received a message from the owner of this beautiful boat. He reached out to ask if he could use some of my photos for prints, and I have to say, I was truly honored and impressed that he wanted my work to represent his vessel.
I told him right away, ‘Yes, no problem!’—but I insisted on doing it the right way. I told him not to download anything from Facebook. Instead, I’m sending him the raw files straight from my phone to make sure he gets the high-quality prints that a boat like the Can’t Do It All deserves.
I even sent him a follow-up because I’d love to take this a step further. My goal now is to capture this boat in motion—heading out to work or coming back to the Jerseyside Wharf with the catch. This is what this new chapter is all about: the real stories and the high-quality moments that happen right here at home.”
There is something uniquely captivating about the Jerseyside Wharf in Placentia. It’s not just a place to dock a boat; it’s a front-row seat to the raw beauty and deep history of Newfoundland’s coast.
Whether you’re there for the crisp salt air or the view of the Gut, the allure is undeniable. Here is a breakdown of what makes this spot so special:
Why It Captivates The charm of the wharf lies in its balance of industry and serenity. You get a real sense of the “Old World” meeting the modern Atlantic spirit.
The View of the Lift Bridge: Watching the Sir Ambrose Shea Lift Bridge operate from the wharf is a local pastime. It’s a marvel of engineering framed by the rolling hills of the Cape Shore.
The Cultural Pulse: This isn’t a stagnant tourist trap. It’s a working area where you can see the fishing heritage of Placentia Bay in action.
The “Golden Hour”: Photographers flock here because the light hitting the water during sunset creates a glow that makes the colorful buildings of Placentia pop against the dark blue sea.
A Perfect Afternoon at the Wharf If you were planning the ultimate visit, it might look a little like this:
A Note for the Soul: There is a specific kind of quiet you find at the wharf when the tide is turning—a reminder that while the world rushes on, the Atlantic keeps its own steady rhythm.
It really is the heart of the community’s connection to the sea. Are you looking to write a piece on its history, or perhaps planning a trip to see it for yourself?
To watch a peaceful Sunday morning walk around the wharf, take a look at the YouTube video below.
While you’re there, be sure to check the description box, where you can learn about the significance of the wharf and its connection to Placentia’s history.
We are currently developing platforms for both locals and visitors.
A Warm Welcome on the Jersey Side: Music and Magic at the Dockside Pub
Just a few days ago, I dropped into the Dockside Pub, nestled near the Jerseyside Wharf in Placentia. Little did I know I was in for such a wonderful experience.
The Atmosphere
The first thing that caught my eye was the classic appeal of the interior, perfectly matched by the welcoming smile of the bartender. Not far from the bar is a beautiful, inviting room (take a look at the photo below!) that sets the perfect mood.
In the main bar area, you’ll find stunning handcrafted tabletops. These are complemented by large windows that look out onto the back deck. When you step outside, you can’t help but marvel at the panoramic views of the ocean, Jerseyside Hill, and the Wharf.
History and Hospitality
Back inside, the heart of the pub is Bill Neville’s Stage. It features a classic piano and guitars, but the real centerpiece is the vintage Barber Chair. It belonged to the Mayor of Placentia’s father.
I was truly honored to meet Jamie Neville. We had a wonderful chat; I loved hearing him speak about his father and his own 29-year career as a barber. Jamie’s son William Neville now owns this pub, which has clearly become a beloved staple for the people of Placentia.
Sights, Sounds, and Flavors
While I didn’t eat during this visit, the plates being served to other customers looked absolutely mouthwatering. The evening really came alive when Billy Hickey stepped up to the piano and belted out a tune that electrified the room.
[Click below to listen to the performance on YouTube]
As the day began to fade, I stepped back out onto the deck. The transition from day to night was absolutely breathtaking.
[Click below to view the wonder of the evening on YouTube]
Final Thoughts
I had such a fantastic visit that I know I’ll find myself back at the Dockside again soon. If you’re in the area, it’s a must-visit!
Ken Winsor - Newfoundland Visuals 