John McCrae and The Essex Farm 

By Blake Lavigne

Who was John McCrae

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John McCrae was a soldier and doctor who served in both the South African War and World War One. He became well-known for his famous poem "In Flanders Fields," written shortly after losing a friend who was buried with a wooden cross in a makeshift grave surrounded by poppies. He rose to the rank of Major in the wars and was set to become the consulting physician of the 1st British Army, which would have made him the first Canadian to do so—an esteemed honor. Unfortunately, he contracted pneumonia and passed away before he could take on this role.

John McCrae's Early Life

Born on November 30th, 1872, in Guelph, Ontario, John McCrae displayed a remarkable talent for poetry from a tender age. Intrigued by the military, he enlisted in the Highland Cadet Corps at 14 and later joined the militia field battery led by his father at 17. His academic achievements were noteworthy, becoming the first student from Guelph to earn a scholarship at the University of Toronto after graduating from Guelph Collegiate. However, his academic journey faced a setback when he had to take a break due to severe asthma after three years at university.

The Origins of the Poem "In Flanders Fields"

McCrae wrote the poem  "In Flanders Fields" because one of his closest friends died in battle, along with many other soldiers. In the cemetery there were many makeshift wooden crosses, poppies started to bloom in between the rows. He wanted to give the dead a voice through his poetry. A few days before McCrae died, he had learned that his poem became famous in the commonwealth nations.

What is the Essex Farm Cemetary

Nestled near the town of Ypres in Belgium, the Essex Farm Cemetery stands as a quiet testament to the sacrifice of Commonwealth soldiers during World War I. Established in 1915 and continuing until the end of the war, this cemetery lies only 2.5 kilometers away from Ypres, close to a dress station. Its location near the bustling station underscored its importance as a final resting place for the brave souls who fought and died in the nearby battles. One of the most touching aspects of Essex Farm Cemetery is its connection to the renowned poem "In Flanders Fields" by John McCrae. McCrae was stationed at an aid post near the cemetery when he wrote the now-famous poem, inspired by the sight of poppies growing amid the graves of fallen soldiers. This literary connection adds a layer of significance to the cemetery, linking it to one of the most enduring symbols of remembrance for those who served in the war. Today, Essex Farm Cemetery remains a solemn place of reflection, with 1204 soldiers laid to rest within its peaceful grounds. Each gravestone represents a life lost in service to their country, a reminder of the bravery and sacrifice of those who fought in the Great War. Visitors to the cemetery can pay their respects and learn about the history of the area, gaining a deeper understanding of the human cost of conflict and the importance of remembering those who gave their lives for future generations.

Why is the Essex Farm Cemetary Important

The Essex Farm cemetery holds great significance, especially for Canadians, as it serves as the final resting place for many soldiers. During World War I, it played a crucial role as the main burial ground for Commonwealth forces in Ypres, right next to an aid station. Among its graves are 1091 British, 6 Canadian, and 3 German soldiers, each representing a story of sacrifice and remembrance.

In Flanders Fields: The Story Of John McCrae and the Essex Farm by Vlogging Through History

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