BOTWOOD, NEWFOUNDLAND AND LABRADOR, July 26, 2007 -- On behalf of the Honourable John Baird, Minister of the Environment and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, the Honourable Loyola Hearn, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans and Minister responsible for Newfoundland and Labrador today announced the unveiling of a Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada plaque commemorating Demasduit. As one of the last known Beothuk, the plaque will commemorate the contribution Demasduit made in preserving the language of the Beothuk, a Newfoundland-based First Nation.
A ceremony marking the importance of Demasduit’s life and her impact on the history of Canada was held today in Botwood, Newfoundland and Labrador. Demasduit and her niece Shanawdithit, the last known Beothuk, contributed greatly to the recorded history of the Beothuk people. The Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada have recognized both women as people of National Historic Significance.
“Both Demasduit and Shanawdithit suffered great adversity in their lives but the contribution of these two women has kept the legacy of the Beothuk alive,” said Minister Hearn. “I am honoured today to be part of this important commemoration to a woman that helped shape the history of Newfoundland and Labrador and Canada.”
During a confrontation between the English and Beothuk parties in 1819, the English took Demasduit captive. Brought to Twillingate and placed in the care of an Anglican missionary, Demasduit provided a remarkable record of the language of the Beothuk, with over 180 words, including the word “Beothuk”. In addition to preserving the language of her people, she played a critical role in changing the once held negative attitude towards the Beothuk. Along with her niece Shanawdithit, they were able to create the legacy of the Beothuk people.
“Demasduit’s life and legend has contributed to an ongoing profusion of arts and literature in Newfoundland and Labrador,” said Minister Hearn. “Known as Mary March, after the month in which she was captured, Demasduit has become an important figure in the Newfoundland psyche and an important figure in the historical landscape of Canada.”
Parks Canada manages a vast network of national parks and historic sites in Newfoundland and Labrador, which offer visitors high-quality services and outstanding heritage experiences.
Created in 1919, the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada advises the Minister of the Environment about the national historic significance of places, persons and events that have marked Canada’s history. The placement of a commemorative plaque represents an official recognition of their historic value. It is one means of educating the public about the richness of our cultural heritage, which must be preserved for present and future generations.
Information:
David H. Taylor
Manager of Marketing and Communications
Newfoundland East Field Unit
Parks Canada
709 772-0285
Backgrounder associated with this News Release.
DEMASDUIT (Circa 1796 to 1820)
