The painting shows the centennial monument at Signal Hill, Dunedin. The figures either side, representing 'History' and 'The Thread of Life', were created by Francis Shurrock.

A plaque reads:

At the beginning of the Dominion's Second Century this monument is dedicated to the memory of the pioneers who braved the first.

Foundation stone laid by his worship the mayor of Dunedin A.H. Allen Esq 21st February 1940.