Prescott, Ontario, May 19, 2012 -- On behalf of the Honourable Peter Kent, Canada's Environment Minister and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, Mr. Gord Brown, Member of Parliament for Leeds-Grenville, officially opened a new visitor centre at Fort Wellington National Historic Site as part of special War of 1812 commemoration and re-enactment activities.
"Fort Wellington is one of the more than 20 National Historic Sites protected by Parks Canada that played a role in the War of 1812," said Minister Kent. "The new visitor centre with its incredible 1812 era gunboat exhibit offers an inspiring, unforgettable Parks Canada experience that invites visitors to discover more about how Fort Wellington contributed to the defence of our nation during this defining chapter of Canada's history."
Fort Wellington is the only major fortification built by the British on the St. Lawrence River during the War of 1812 and was of strategic importance in protecting the vital St. Lawrence River transit route to Lake Ontario and Upper Canada. 200th anniversary commemoration activities at Fort Wellington present a unique opportunity for all Canadians to take pride in our traditions and shared history. The new visitor centre, including its unique War of 1812 gunboat exhibit, welcomes visitors with compelling stories that illustrate the events and personal sacrifices that helped make Canada an independent and free country.
"Parks Canada plays an exemplary leadership role in the protection and presentation of our nation's cultural heritage," said Mr. Brown. "This new visitor centre will enable Parks Canada to broaden the activities and opportunities offered, which will attract more visitors to the region and help the local tourism industry as a whole."
Parks Canada works to ensure Canada's historic and natural heritage is protected and, through a network of 43 national parks, 167 national historic sites, and four national marine conservation areas, invites Canadians and people around the world to engage in personal moments of inspiring discovery at our treasured natural and historic places.
For additional information, please see the accompanying backgrounders at www.parkscanada.gc.ca under Media Room.
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