Dedication of Carleton Place’s Four Directions Stones to coincide with National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

Later this month, Carleton Place will officially dedicate a new installation honouring the Algonquin peoples to coincide with the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.

The dedication and ceremony for the Four Directions Stones will take place Wednesday, September 30, 2026 at 11 a.m. at the Mississippi River Gathering Place, also known as Misi Zibi Mamidosewin, located at 273 Lake Avenue West.

“It’s been several years in the making, but Carleton Place will finally see this beautiful vision brought to life,” the Mississippi River Gathering Place – Misi Zibi Mamidosewin wrote in a recent social media post. “There are many hearts who’ve been invested throughout its manifestation.”

According to event organizers, the installation features four seven-foot-high stones positioned in the four cardinal directions. The stones will stand as a reminder to those who visit the gathering place to learn, reflect and respect the presence of Algonquin people, both past and present.

The stones are intended to recognize the long-standing connection between the Algonquin people and the Mississippi River, as they long used the river as a primary travel and trade route long before settlers came to the land.

A commemorative plaque will also accompany the Four Directions Stones installation to explain the meaning behind the stones and their symbolism, while also acknowledging those who supported the initiative.

“This will be a meaningful day of recognition and learning,” the Town of Carleton Place said in a release on Tuesday, Sept.14. “Come sing with us, drum with us, learn from us, and remember with us.”

For Carleton Place, the new installation will provide a permanent place for residents and visitors to learn about and acknowledge the Algonquin presence and history connected to the Mississippi River.

The ceremony is free and open to everyone. Those wishing to sit are advised to bring their own lawn chair.