SAINT-EUSTACHE, QC, June 29, 2015 /CNW/ - The Honourable Claude Carignan, Senator and Leader of the Government in the Senate, on behalf of the Honourable Leona Aglukkaq, Minister of the Environment and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, today announced the designation of Saint-Eustache Church as a national historic site of Canada. With artillery scars still visible in its stonework, Quebec's Saint-Eustache Church remains a symbol of the 1837 Lower Canada Rebellion and the history of early Canada.
Originally built between 1780 and 1783, the church played a central role in the Battle of Saint-Eustache which marked the end of the 1837 Lower Canada Rebellion. The church held out against heavy cannon attack but was partially destroyed by fire during the battle.
Saint-Eustache Church reflects the evolution of religious architecture in Quebec through the 18th, 19th and 20th centuries. Though the building has undergone numerous alterations over the years, the Church continues to be a visual reminder of the fateful events of 1837.
As our country nears its 150th birthday in 2017, the Government of Canada invites Canadians to reflect on the people and events that have shaped Canada into the strong, proud and free country that it is today. Canada's national historic designations enable us to experience our rich history and heritage in a special way and play a big part in the celebration of Canada 150.
Quick Facts
- The massive décor of Saint-Eustache Church with its twin spires on either side, each topped with a belfry containing double lanterns, is an example of the influence of neoclassicism in the early 19th century.
- For more than 20 years, the Montreal Symphony Orchestra has used Saint-Eustache Church as a recording venue for numerous albums due to the outstanding acoustics offered by the church.
- Parks Canada manages a nationwide network of 168 national historic sites, 45 national parks and four national marine conservation areas that make up the rich tapestry of Canada's cultural and natural heritage.
Quote
"A powerful reminder one of the key moments of Canada's pre-Confederation, the Saint-Eustache Church bore witness to the rebellions of 1837. The church also has important architectural significance. Our Government is proud to designate Saint‑Eustache Church as a national historic site and, in doing so, help to ensure that the stories of our nation are preserved and shared for future generations."
The Honourable Claude Carignan, Senator and Leader of the Government in the Senate
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Associated Link
Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada
http://www.pc.gc.ca/eng/clmhc-hsmbc/index.aspx
SOURCE Parks Canada
Jonathan Lefebvre, Office of the Minister of the Environment, 819-997-1441; Media Relations, Parks Canada, 855-862-1812, www.twitter.com/parkscanada
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