July 31, 2015 Ottawa, Ontario Parks Canada
Gord Brown, Member of Parliament for Leeds–Grenville, on behalf of the Honourable Leona Aglukkaq, Minister of the Environment and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, today announced the designation of War of 1812 Shipwrecks as a National Historic Site of Canada. The War of 1812-1814 between Great Britain and the United States of America led to a much-needed expansion of the “Provincial Marine” naval base, established in Kingston, Ontario, in 1789, continuing to make this area a crucial location in all wartime tactics and strategy.
In the years following the war, many ships eventually became unusable and a decision was made to close the shipyard in 1834. The navy needed to dispose of the vessels and while some were auctioned and sold for scrap, others were deliberately sunk in Deadman Bay, clear of the shipping channel. The wrecks of HMS Prince Regent, HMS Princess Charlotte and HMS St. Lawrence and the collection of objects from them attest to the presence and importance of the British fleet based in Kingston and Royal Navy’s shipbuilding program during the War of 1812.
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.
Media Relations
Parks Canada
1-855-862-1812
pc.media@pc.gc.ca
