What’s in the Heart of Downtown? Find Out This Valentine’s Day!
The Inception of the World’s Largest Tin Soldier: A Labour of Love and Community Spirit
What secrets lie within the heart of the World’s Largest Tin Soldier? This Valentine’s Day, February 14, 2025, the people of New Westminster will finally uncover the mystery as the time capsule nestled within its golden heart is opened. As we prepare for this special moment, it’s the perfect time to reflect on how this beloved icon came to be.
A Symbol of Community and Kindness
Standing tall at 9.75 meters, the World’s Largest Tin Soldier was created as a beacon of kindness and community spirit. It was born out of the Royal City Christmas Festival, spearheaded by Wayne Wright before his time as mayor of New Westminster. The festival celebrated inclusivity and supported the Simon Fraser Society for Community Living, which serves children and adults with disabilities.
Mayor Wayne Wright
The Tin Soldier’s creation was a collaborative effort involving unions, businesses, and individuals, who contributed their time, expertise, and materials. As a “labour of love,” the soldier was constructed from durable bridge materials, ensuring it would stand strong for generations. The gold heart placed at its center symbolizes the spirit of kindness and generosity that brought the project to life.
From Armoury to Quay
The Tin Soldier was officially unveiled on November 29, 2000, outside the Royal Westminster Regiment Armoury at Sixth Street and Queens Avenue. It quickly became a cherished landmark. In 2002, it was relocated to its current home at Westminster Quay, overlooking the Fraser River, a nod to the city’s rich history and connection to the waterway. That same year, the Tin Soldier earned its place in the Guinness Book of World Records as the World’s Largest Tin Soldier.
A Heart Full of History
At its original dedication, a time capsule was placed inside the Tin Soldier’s golden heart, intended to be opened on February 14, 2025. The capsule represents a snapshot of the community at the turn of the millennium, preserving mementos for future generations. The decision to open it on Valentine’s Day reflects the deep love and pride the creators felt for New Westminster.
A Community Celebration
In December 2024, New Westminster council unanimously approved a motion to plan the time capsule opening as a public event. Scheduled for Valentine’s Day, the celebration will honour the individuals and organizations who contributed to the Tin Soldier’s creation. It’s not just about unveiling history—it’s an opportunity to bring the community together and support local businesses through partnerships with organizations like Tourism New Westminster, River Market, and the Downtown New West BIA.
A Lasting Legacy
The Tin Soldier was officially gifted to the City of New Westminster by the Simon Fraser Society for Community Living in 2011, solidifying its role as a city icon. Its story has even inspired a children’s book, Tall Tale: The True Story of the World’s Largest Tin Soldier, written by Tiffany Stone and illustrated by Elisa Gutierrez. This whimsical tale ensures that the Tin Soldier’s history will continue to captivate future generations.
As we count down to the opening of the time capsule, we celebrate not just the Tin Soldier’s remarkable stature but also the values it represents: kindness, inclusivity, and the power of community. On Valentine’s Day 2025, the heart of New Westminster will beat a little stronger as we gather to unlock the secrets of the past and create new memories together.
What’s in the heart of the World’s Largest Tin Soldier? Join us to find out—and to celebrate the enduring love that built it.
