The Government of Canada Recognizes the National Historic Significance of Arvida
News Release
A commemorative plaque to honour this model city
June 3, 2016 Ville de Saguenay, Quebec Parks Canada Agency
Today, Parks Canada, the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada and the City of Saguenay celebrated the historical significance of Arvida by unveiling a plaque commemorating its designation as a national historic site of Canada.
The plaque will be located in Lévesque Park which is located in the original core of Arvida. Initially designed in 1925 and completed in three phases extending to 1950, the city of Arvida was founded following the establishment of the Alcoa aluminum plant. It is a unique quality workers' housing project where the rapid construction of the urban landscape was achieved using a great variety of residential models. Extremely well preserved, this architectural ensemble is a testimony to the rise and the significance of the aluminum industry in Canada in the twentieth century.
The unveiling took place in the presence of the president of the Jonquière District and City Councillor, Mr. Carl Dufour. Representatives of the Rio Tinto aluminium smelter were also present to recognize the development of this model city which still bears witness to the importance of the aluminum sector to the country.
As we near the 150th anniversary of Confederation in 2017, the Government invites all Canadians to experience and learn more about our environment and our history. Canada’s national parks, national historic sites and national marine conservation areas enable Canadians to experience their heritage in a special way and will play a big part in the celebration of Canada 150.
Quotes
“The Government of Canada is committed to connecting Canadians to the significant events that contributed to our country’s rich and varied history. We are proud to commemorate the historical significance of Arvida as an outstanding example of a model city.”
Nicholas Roquet
Member of the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada
“Since its creation in 1925, the city of Arvida never ceased to be the cornerstone of the region’s industrial development. Building a city in such a short amount of time (135 days) is a feat and we can only be proud of this accomplishment. The Arvida smelter, close to the city, remains a unique concept. ”
Jean Tremblay
Mayor of Ville de Saguenay
Quick facts
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Arvida National Historic Site commemorates this model city as an outstanding example of a planned 20th century industrial town. It also reflects the importance of Canada’s aluminum industry during that time.
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The city of Arvida was named in honour of its founder, ARthur VIning DAvis, President of the Alcoa Company at the time. The city also earned the nickname “the city built in 135 days”, because the 270 residences of the original phase were erected in only 135 days.
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Canada’s national parks, national historic sites and national marine conservation areas belong to all Canadians. They represent the very best that Canada has to offer and tell the stories of who we are, including the history, cultures and contributions of Indigenous Peoples.
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Created in 1919, the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada advises the Minister of Environment and Climate Change regarding the national historic significance of places, people and events that have marked Canada’s history. Parks Canada manages a nation-wide network of national historic sites that make up the rich tapestry of Canada’s cultural heritage and which offers visitors the opportunity for real and inspiring discoveries.
Related products
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Backgrounder: Arvida National Historic Site of Canada
Additional links
Contacts
Laurence Pagé
Partnering, Engagement and Communications Officer
Tel.: 418-235-4703 ext. 246 / Cell: 418-514-8479
laurence.page@pc.gc.ca
Media Relations
Parks Canada Agency
855-862-1812
pc.media@pc.gc.ca
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