L'Anse aux Meadows, Newfoundland and Labrador, July 21, 2010 -- The Honourable Jim Prentice, Minister of the Environment and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, today marked the 50th anniversary of the discovery of the Norse remains at the L'Anse aux Meadows National Historic Site by Helge and Anne Stine Instad, and their guide, local fisherman George Decker.
"The Government of Canada, through Parks Canada, is committed to ensuring that L'Anse aux Meadows National Historic Site continues to offer visitors exceptional opportunities for memorable experiences", said Minister Prentice. "On behalf of the Government of Canada, I am proud that our Economic Action Plan funds have contributed to the L'Anse aux Meadows National Historic Site so that it continues to offer visitors exceptional opportunities for memorable experiences, as well as provide new and interesting ways to learn about our country's exciting history.
Through projects such as the rehabilitated trail, refurbished sod hut and rejuvenated outdoor exhibits visible today at the site, as well as the ongoing renovations to the Visitor Reception Centre and its exhibits, we will be able to improve on these experiences in response to the changing face of Canada. As we invest in these iconic sites, we ensure that we continue connecting the hearts and minds of generations of Canadians with the amazing stories that these sites have to tell."
Celebrations began early in the community of L'Anse aux Meadows, with a traditional breakfast. Descendants of Helge and Anne Stine Ingstad and George Decker then led an expedition across the barrens of L'Anse aux Meadows to the Norse archaeological site, retracing the steps of their families 50 years ago. The group was then joined by invited guests, community members and an enthusiastic group of visitors to officially commemorate the discovery on-site.
"I am pleased to be here today to celebrate 50 years of the discovery of L'Anse aux Meadows National Historic Site," said Parks Canada's Chief Executive Officer, Alan Latourelle, to those gathered for the occasion at the national historic site. "Together with the Ingstad and Decker families, I am proud to share the unique story of this UNESCO World Heritage Site with Canadians and visitors from around the world, and to celebrate the stories, cultures and peoples who have made this site a world-class destination."
The day-long celebration also included a reunion of Parks Canada and Ingstad staff from the past 50 years, who reminisced about early days at the site, and culminated in a public beach fire.
L'Anse aux Meadows is home to a unique story as the only authenticated Viking site in North America, and the site of first contact between North American Aboriginal peoples and Europeans.
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Information:
Michaela Kent
External Relations Manager
Parks Canada, Newfoundland West and Labrador
709-458-3631 (office)
709-458-8450 (cell.)
Backgrounder associated with this News Release.
Celebrating a Rich Past with Generations of Canadians
