Second World War
The Navy Ashore  - Building the Royal Canadian Navy

The Royal Canadian Navy expanded dramatically during the Second World War, acquiring ships and recruiting personnel to meet the constantly increasing demands placed upon it. Ships had to be built, repaired, and maintained, and people recruited, trained, and supported.

The Crow's Nest, St. John's Newfoundland

Tom Wood's 1945 painting captures the cozy, nautical atmosphere of the Crow's Nest Club in St. John's, Newfoundland.

Following the outbreak of the Second World War, St. John's became an important port for convoy escorts from the Royal Canadian Navy and other Allied forces. The Crow's Nest was established in January 1942 to provide a club for seagoing officers, and soon became a popular establishment. Space on the walls was allotted to individual ships, which provided crests, coats of arms, and other decorations. Crests for HMCS Trillium (top centre) and HMCS Georgian (top right) can be seen amongst them.

The Crow's Nest, St. John's Newfoundland
Painted by Tom Wood in 1945
Beaverbrook Collection of War Art
CWM 19710261-4856