Emily Murphy

The EAC received notice on February 25, 2025, that this artwork had been stolen. A police report has been filed by the City and the case is under investigation.

In 1991, Donna Marchyshyn-Shymko was commissioned to do a life size bronze of Emily Murphy, to be placed in the park that bears the same name. The piece was dedicated in September of 1992. Commissioned by William Hawrelak’s wife, Pearl Hawrelak Porter, the life-size bronze statue of Emily Murphy pays homage to the notable suffragist. Looking forward, and cradling a text in her left arm, the artist captures Murphy’s perseverant nature. While conducting research for the piece, the sculptor poured over images and documents from the City of Edmonton archives to learn as much as possible about the legacy and personality of her subject. Marchyshyn-Shymko chose to represent Murphy in everyday attire, and studied catalogues of women’s fashion from the period to accurately capture Murphy’s clothing. This in-depth research allowed Marchyshyn-Shymko to capture small touches – from the brooch, boots, and hat that Murphy was always seen sporting in photographs – to truly embody the spirit of this famous Edmontonian. 

Emily Murphy, one of Alberta’s ​“Famous Five” – Nellie McClung, Henrietta Muir Edwards, Louise McKinney, and Irene Parlby – was a formidable advocate for the rights of women and children. In 1916, Murphy was appointed as magistrate, the first woman in the British Commonwealth to attain such a post. A decade later, Murphy and the other members of the Famous Five instigated the efforts to have women recognized as persons under the British North America Act. In the end, they were successful in their campaign, making it possible for women to serve in the Senate. 

In addition to her participation in progressive social movements and civic organizations, she held posts with the Federated Women’s Institutes of Canada, the National Council of Women, the Canadian Council for Child Welfare, and the Canadian Women’s Press Club. She was also renown for her talents as an author, editor, and book reviewer. 

Like many historical figures, Murphy’s views have been re-examined in recent years. Her opinions on immigration and eugenics have been considered racist and elitist, according to The Canadian Encyclopedia.