More than a century after the devastating events of July 1, 1916, a powerful symbol of sacrifice is being brought back to life—this time with the intent of ensuring its legacy endures for generations to come.
For many, the Danger Tree stands as one of the most enduring reminders of the First World War, and in particular, the Battle of Beaumont-Hamel. On that day, the first of the Battle of the Somme, 90 per cent of the soldiers of the Newfoundland Regiment were lost or wounded in less than an hour—many falling near the base of that now-iconic tree.
Over time, the original Danger Tree at Beaumont-Hamel succumbed to decay, replaced multiple times across the past century. Now, through a collaboration between Memorial University and Veterans Affairs Canada, a new replica has been created—one rooted not only in historical accuracy, but in remembrance, reflection, and national identity.
Commissioned as part of Memorial University’s 100th anniversary as a living memorial—and ahead of the 110th anniversary of the Battle of Beaumont-Hamel—the project called upon the university’s Department of Technical Services. Known for crafting tailored solutions through custom prototypes and specialized equipment, the team worked closely with Veterans Affairs Canada to design and build the replica. Local artist Brittany Mitchell completed the piece, painting the structure and bringing its final details to life.
“This monument represents loss and grief to Memorial and to Newfoundland and Labrador, but also hope,” remarked Dr. Janet Morrison, Memorial’s president and vice-chancellor. “The university is a living memorial to those who gave their lives and was founded a century ago to honour that past by promising a brighter future. We were honoured to build it and moved by the reverence from everyone who had a hand in its fabrication.”
The unveiling in Ottawa offered members of the public and the Memorial community a first look at the finished work—a solemn yet forward-looking tribute—before its journey overseas. The replica has now been formally handed over to Veterans Affairs Canada, with the Canadian Armed Forces set to transport it across the Atlantic.
Its final destination is the Beaumont-Hamel Newfoundland Memorial in France, where it will be permanently installed. A ceremonial unveiling is scheduled for June 30, attended by Newfoundlanders and Labradorians, as well as site partners and local communities—one day before commemorations marking the 110th anniversary of the battle.
“The Battle of Beaumont-Hamel is one of the most solemn moments in the history of Newfoundland and Labrador, marked by extraordinary courage and devastating loss,” said the Honourable Jill McKnight, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence. “This new Danger Tree will stand on French soil as a powerful tribute to the sons of Newfoundland and Labrador who gave their lives at Beaumont-Hamel. Acts of remembrance like this honour our nation’s proud military contributions and ensure those sacrifices are remembered across generations.” In recreating the Danger Tree, the project does more than restore a landmark—it reinforces a collective memory, bridging past and present through craftsmanship, collaboration, and commemoration.