In 1995, preliminary actions were made by the Town of Port Blandford and the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #48 to move the World War I Monument from Alton United Church and the World War II Monument from St. Aidan's Anglican Church and unite them in one central location in Port Blandford. The Town of Port Blandford proposed to maintain and beautify the proposed War Memorial Site.
After a year of planning and fundraising the Monuments were moved to the new site on December 23, 1996 and a new Korea Plaque was added to the two Monuments.
On July 1, 1997 the Town of Port Blandford, the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #48, the Alton United Church, and the St. Aidan's Anglican Church held an unveiling ceremony for the dedication of the Monuments. The War Memorial Site is located in the center of town close to the Alton United Church. The Site is the location of annual Remembrance Day Ceremonies and a Veteran's Ceremony this year.
Port Blandford War Memorials
The Town of Port Blandford has two War Memorials. Following the end of World War I (1914-1918), the citizens of Port Blandford erected a grey marble memorial on a hill in front of the Alton United Church. This monument is now repositioned and dedicated at the Port Blandford War Memorial Site.
Following the World War II (1939-1945), the people of Port Blandford again had reason to honour their war comrades. A grey marble memorial was erected on a a hill in front of St. Aidan's Anglican Church, paying tribute to residents of their community, who paid the supreme sacrifice during war. This monument is now repositioned and dedicated at the Port Blandford War Memorial Site.
In addition to these two monuments, another was erected and unveiled. There is a plaque commemorating the Korean War of 1950-1953.
The Port Blandford Outdoor Skating Rink was a project developed by the Port Blandford Recreation Association. The Association held numerous fundraising events and in the Winter of 2003 officially opened the site. Currently, the Recreation Association hopes to further develop the rink. This charming little rink features a Skate Hut for lacing up. The Outdoor Rink is located on School Road next to the Ballfield.
Port Blandford's Ball Field is located on School Road. It is approximately 27 years old being developed in 1977-1978. Port Blandford has one of the largest Soft Ball fields in Newfoundland. The Town of Port Blandford's Summer Students usually maintain the field. The Ball field is fully fenced with dug-outs and bleachers.
The T'railway passes right through Port Blandford and is easily accessible from just about any point in the Town.
Pack your day pack and take a ride east or west along the T'railway outside Port Blandford. Use the T'railway all year round - Hike, cross-country ski, ride snowmobile, or ride ATV, add a boil up and the possibility of seeing local wildlife close up and you have experienced the perfect day!
Port Blandford is surrounded by three rivers, the Southwest, Salmon and Northwest Rivers.
Why not try salmon fishing on the Northwest River on the TCH Route 1 on the western border of Port Blandford. Purchase a permit at any local gas station and then drop into the observation hut on the TCH. Take notice of the salmon count on the building. Friendly Terra Nova National Park employees will assist you in finding a great fishing location on the river and make sure you are familiar with the guidelines too.
