risked his life during World War II by moving an unexploded bomb away from an aircraft plant. For this exploit he received the first George Cross for Valour. In 1960, the park was renamed to honour Sam Lawrence. During 1990 to 1994, Sam Lawrence Park underwent a major upgrading that included repairing the stone walls, installing new walkways, site lighting, site furniture, and the redevelopment of the major rock gardens. When the (Ontario) Workers Arts and Heritage Centre purchased the historic Custom House on Stuart Street in the north end of Hamilton in 1996, they began hosting an annual Sam Lawrence Dinner after their November AGM. References 1879 births 1959 deaths Mayors of Hamilton, Ontario Ontario Co-operative Commonwealth Federation MPPs 20th-century Canadian politicians British emigrants to Canada