Celebrating A Remarkable Chapter in Our History
Esterhazy, Saskatchewan, September 3, 2011 -- On behalf of the Honourable Peter Kent, Canada's Environment Minister and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, Mr. Garry Breiktreuz, Member of Parliament for Yorkton-Melville, today unveiled a Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada plaque commemorating the national historic significance of the Esterhazy Flour Mill.
"The mill exemplifies the rich legacy of the grain economy to the early development of the West, and is a testament of the determination and entrepreneurial spirit of our early pioneers as they worked hard to raise families and build communities, such as Esterhazy," said Minister Kent. "It is that same spirit that spurred this community to action to save this mill from demolition. They are to be commended for their efforts."
The Esterhazy Flour Mill, which contains almost all of its original equipment, is a rare and complete illustration of period flour milling technology. Milling contributed to the establishment, growth and development of many communities, Esterhazy among them, and thereby helped support immigration and settlement.
"The Esterhazy Flour Mill is associated with three important themes in Prairie history: settlement, agriculture and railway transportation," said Mr. Breitkreuz. "Combined, these illustrate a remarkable chapter in the history of our developing nation."
The Esterhazy Flour Mill is owned by the Town of Esterhazy and operated by the Friends of the Flour Mill, with tours being offered throughout the summer and upon request the remainder of the year. A bilingual, commemorative plaque will be on permanent display near the mill.
The Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada advises the Government of Canada, through the Minister of the Environment, on the commemoration of nationally significant aspects of Canada's history. Parks Canada manages a nation-wide network of national historic sites that make up the rich tapestry of Canada's cultural heritage and which offers visitors the opportunity for real and inspiring discoveries.
For additional information, please see the accompanying backgrounder at www.parkscanada.gc.ca under Media Room.
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Information:
Audra Norek
A/Cultural Resource Management Advisor
Saskatchewan South Field Unit
Parks Canada
306-745-6234
www.twitter.com/parkscanada
