Commemorative WWI Exhibit to Attract Tourists to Nova Scotia
November 10, 2014 – Halifax, NS – Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
The year 2014 marks the centennial of the beginning of the First World War. This conflict was the largest our country had ever faced with over 650,000 people from Canada and Newfoundland serving on the battlefields of Europe. Canadian soldiers bravely fought far from home and suffered great losses, including 66,000 fatalities and over 172,000 wounded. The Road to Vimy and Beyond is the largest exhibit ever undertaken by The Army Museum Halifax Citadel. It commemorates the role and sacrifices of Atlantic Canadians in this centennial year.
The general theme of the exhibit is the Canadian Army at war, 1914-1918, with an emphasis on the efforts of Atlantic Canadians, particularly those from Nova Scotia. The Road to Vimy and Beyond exhibit includes a replica of the Vimy Memorial, which is specially lit and includes interpretative panels so visitors can learn about its significance and the importance of the battle that was fought at Vimy Ridge. The exhibit honours those who served in the First World War both at home and on the front.
With support from Government of Canada, the museum will lead five projects to promote this special memorial, promoting the museum and telling Nova Scotia’s history like never before. The planned marketing initiatives include a website, a First World War Halifax walking tour, gateway advertisements, brochures and print advertisements.
The Government of Canada is providing a $93,750 contribution, through ACOA’s Business Development Program, to support the Army Museum Halifax Citadel in marketing its new exhibit. This investment will enable the museum to attract tourists to our province and educate a wider audience on Atlantic Canada’s role in the First World War.
Quick Facts:
- The Army Museum Halifax Citadel is a not-for-profit museum, run by veteran volunteers that was incorporated in Halifax on November 7, 1953.
- The Army Museum is Atlantic Canada’s premier military museum with over 55,000 visitors each year.
- The Army Museum displays rare and unique military artifacts, some dating back to the days when Halifax was a British fort.
- Canada’s immense sacrifice during the First World War led to its separate signature on the Peace Treaty, recognizing Canada’s contribution to the allied victory.
Quotes:
“The Road to Vimy and Beyond commemorates a time of individual sacrifice, sorrow and bravery in the face of great odds. This exhibit by the Army Museum Halifax Citadel is a poignant reminder of how Canadian troops lived, fought and convalesced during the First World War. Our Government’s support for this exhibit will inform residents and attract visitors who will learn about Atlantic Canada’s role in the Great War during this 100th anniversary year.”
- The Honourable Peter MacKay, Regional Minister for Nova Scotia, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, on behalf of the Honourable Rob Moore, Minister of State (ACOA)
"For the first time in the Army Museum's 61 year history, with ACOA’s support, we will be able to fully promote our major exhibit, The Road to Vimy and Beyond, that commemorates the courage and sacrifices of those that served in the First World War. Our goal is to have as many Canadians and foreign visitors as possible appreciate Atlantic Canada's part in the Great War, with emphasis on Nova Scotia. This really is a "must see" First World War Centennial exhibit."
- Colonel (Ret’d) Bruce Gilchrist, Vice Chair, The Army Museum Halifax Citadel
Associated Links:
Contacts:
Kelsie Corey
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of State
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
613-941-7241
Clarissa Lamb
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Justice
613-992-4621
Alex Smith
Director, Communications and Outreach
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
902-426-9417/902-830-3839 (cell)
E-mail: Alex.Smith@acoa-apeca.gc.ca
Bruce Gilchrist or Major Ken Hynes
Army Museum Halifax Citadel
902-422-5979
b.j.gilchrist@ns.sympatico.ca
