H.M.C.S. Unicorn

Description of the Historic Place

The H.M.C.S. Unicorn building is a two-storey brick building used for the Canadian Naval Reserve Division in Saskatoon. Located in the Central Business District, the H.M.C.S. Unicorn is situated across from City Hall on a corner lot at 405 24th Street East.

Heritage Value

The Canadian Naval Reserve Division in Saskatoon was first established in April of 1923 as the Saskatoon Half Company, Royal Canadian Naval Volunteer Reserve. In 1942 the Saskatoon Half Company commissioned a land based ship, more commonly referred to as a "stone frigate", called the H.M.C.S. Unicorn in honour of one of the first ships to sail into Hudson Bay in the journey to find the Northwest Passage.

During World War II, the H.M.C.S. Unicorn operated as a recruiting centre, enlisting over 3,500 men and women into the Royal Canadian Navy. It also developed a University Naval Training program. Today, HMCS Unicorn remains a vital part of navy operations.

An anchor mounted in front of the H.M.C.S. Unicorn is dedicated to the "Saskatchewan Sailor" which is the naval equivalent of the Unknown Soldier.

Source: City of Saskatoon Built Heritage Database

Character Defining Elements

Key elements which contribute to the heritage value of this historic resource include:

• Those features that contribute to its historical value, evident in: its form; massing, brick façade with H.M.C.S lettering, and mounted anchor.