Event included a period cannon firing demonstration
St. Andrews, New Brunswick, June 7, 2013 -- Today, on behalf of the Honourable Peter Kent, Canada's Environment Minister and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, Mr. John Williamson, Member of Parliament for New Brunswick Southwest, led an event with youth from local schools to commemorate the War of 1812, complete with a special period cannon firing demonstration at St. Andrews Blockhouse National Historic Site of Canada.
“Through events such as this one at St. Andrews Blockhouse National Historic Site, the Government of Canada hopes to engage youth with a heightened sense of connection and pride in their national treasures and history,” explained Mr. Williamson. “Our national historic sites are excellent for learning and serve Canadians as vibrant centres of discovery and offer a window into our rich history.”
The St. Andrews Blockhouse is one of more than twenty War of 1812 sites administered by Parks Canada, which is a leading presenter of historic experiences from this pivotal era in North American history. The site’s national historic significance stems from its defensive role during the War of 1812 and the type of military architecture, known as a blockhouse. Due to their simple design and the abundance of timber, blockhouses were a quick and inexpensive method to protect the troops. Declared a national historic site in 1962, St. Andrews Blockhouse is one of the oldest surviving blockhouses in Canada and is the only one left standing in New Brunswick.
“The Government of Canada invites Canadians of all ages to experience the important landscapes, forts and buildings related to the War of 1812 at Parks Canada’s national historic sites,” said Minister Kent. “These dramatic and historic places tell the story of how a fierce conflict with an uncertain outcome brought forth unity, bravery and perseverance, laying the foundations of our future.”
Parks Canada is the largest provider of historic and natural heritage tourism in Canada. Through a network of 44 national parks, 167 national historic sites, and four national marine conservation areas, Parks Canada sets the stage and invites Canadians, as well as people from around the world, to engage in personal moments of inspiring discovery of our treasured natural and historic places.
For additional information, please see the accompanying backgrounder at www.parkscanada.gc.ca under Media Room.
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