The Navy: A Century in Art
A Canadian Navy

Canada's navy is an important national institution. It is an influential presence in many Canadian communities and is a historic and influential symbol of nationhood. For many Canadians, the navy is a focus of passion, pride, and service.

The Naval Base at Gaspé
Painted by Thomas (Tom) Wood in 1945

Enemy submarines brought war to Canada's ocean coats.

German submarines along the eastern seaboard forced the involvement of coastal communities in their own defence. Gaspe, seen here, became a major naval base in early 1942, home to several thousand personnel and a small fleet of corvettes, minesweepers, and motor torpedo boats.

Beaverbrook Collection of War Art
CWM 19710261-4894