Points of Interest
Remembering Beautiful Joe
In 1963 Beautiful Joe Park was created on 8.5 acres of land along the Big Head River at the junction of Edwin and Berry Streets in Meaford. A commemorative plaque was erected at the site of the dog's actual grave. The same year the park was designated as historic by the Province of Ontario. During the next 30 years with the addition of a pavilion and playground equipment, it developed into a favorite area for family and group picnics, as well as some events sponsored the town or local organizations.
In 1994 the Beautiful Joe Heritage Society was formed with a vision to establish an international tourist attraction and historic site. The purpose of the park became to promote the humane treatment of all animals, and to honor outstanding and courageous canines and their relationship with humans. An international memorial to working dogs was erected, and
In 2001 a memorial to police K-9 Units was added. Then in May 11, 2002 another tribute in the form of a monument made of two slabs of marble on a concrete bed and shaped like the pentagon was unveiled to honor the canine units that participated in the search, recovery and rescue after the tragic events of September 11. It was dedicated by a member of the New York K-9 Unit, who had lost his partner at the World Trade Centre.
