The helmet and armor on the obelisk is an ancient Roman motif called a “trophy” and tells us about the proud military service of the McRee family.

William MacRee was famous for working as the surveyor general as a civilian after serving in the War of 1812. His reputation as his engineering prowess proved indispensable during several battles, including the Battle of Niagara.

Updated in October of 2018 with details of McRee family.