Government of Canada Announces 13 New National Historic Designations

Canada History Week celebrated from coast to coast

OTTAWA, July 4, 2016 /CNW/ - In celebration of Canada History Week (July 1-7), the Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, Catherine McKenna, announced the designation of 13 new nationally significant persons, places and events that helped define Canada's history.

These new designations reflect the rich and varied history of our nation in areas related to Indigenous Peoples, government and the economy, arts and architecture, and military history. The commemoration process is largely driven by public nominations and designations are made on the recommendation of the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada. To date, more than 2,000 designations have been made.

Canada History Week is an opportunity for all Canadians to learn about our national identity and shared history, and history-focused organizations, such as museums and historical societies, across the country will be hosting activities, events and festivals throughout the week to connect their communities with our past.

As we near the 150th anniversary of Confederation in 2017, the Government of Canada invites Canadians to experience and learn more about our environment and our history. Canada's national parks and national historic sites enable Canadians to experience their heritage in a special way and will play a big part in the celebration of Canada 150.

Quote

"As we celebrate Canada History Week, I am very proud to recognize the people, places and events that shaped Canada, including the 13 new designations announced today. Each of these designations is a distinct and vibrant symbol of Canadian identity. They tell the stories of who we are as a people, including the contributions of Indigenous Peoples. I encourage all Canadians to take this opportunity to discover and learn more about the incredible and diverse history of our great nation."

The Honourable Catherine McKenna
Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister responsible for Parks Canada

The 13 new designations include:

Indigenous Peoples: Lucille Clifton ('Wii Nii Puun) (1876-1962)
Governing Canada: Thomas Clement "Tommy" Douglas (1904-1986)
Developing Economies: Agathe de Saint-Père de Repentigny (1657-1748); Jacques & Hay Furniture Manufacturers; Simon Fraser (1776-1862); Marr Residence, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
Arts and Architecture: Port Hope Theatre, Ontario; Assiniboine Park and Zoo; David Brown Milne (1882-1953); Thomas Fuller (1823-1898); The Union Club of British Columbia, Victoria, British Columbia
Military History: The Halifax Explosion; Montgomery Place, Saskatchewan

Associated Links:

More information on the 13 designations: Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada

History Week: Canada History Week 2016

SOURCE Parks Canada

For further information: Media Relations, Parks Canada, 855-862-1812, [email protected]