June 5, 2015 – Ottawa, Ontario – Parks Canada
Today, the Honourable Denis Lebel, Minister of Infrastructure, Communities and Intergovernmental Affairs and Minister of the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec, on behalf of the Honourable Leona Aglukkaq, Minister of the Environment and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, announced the designation of Sir John A. Macdonald’s summer residence as a National Historic Site of Canada, on the recommendation of the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada. More than just a summer retreat for Canada’s first prime minister, Sir John A. Macdonald’s summer residence in Rivière-du-Loup was the site of many important discussions on issues facing Canada as a new nation.
Given the name Les Rochers (the Rocks) by Lady Agnes Macdonald, the property at 336 Fraser Street in Saint‑Patrice-de-la-Rivière-du-Loup was the summer home for Macdonald and his family between 1873 and 1890. Here, the Prime Minister continued to conduct official duties, receive notable guests and consider important national matters, including the construction of the railway, the economic challenges of the 1880s, and the development of the West. In 1885, Les Rochers was the site of a meeting between Macdonald and his cabinet to discuss Louis Riel and events in the West.
As our country nears its 150th birthday in 2017, the Government of Canada invites Canadians to learn more about the major events that have shaped their country’s history. Canada’s national historic designations enable us to experience our rich history and heritage in a special way and play a big part in the celebration of Canada 150.
Jonathan Lefebvre
Office of the Minister of the Environment
819-997-1441
Media Relations
Parks Canada
1-855-862-1812
www.twitter.com/parkscanada
