Two Anniversaries to Celebrate at Sir Wilfrid Laurier National Historic Site
News Release
June 6, 2016 St-Lin-Laurentides, Quebec Parks Canada Agency
Sir Wilfrid Laurier National Historic Site, who will open its doors from June 18 to September 5, 2016, is celebrating its 75th anniversary. It’s in 1941 that Prime Minister Mackenzie King inaugurated this site, which became the very first national historic site in Canada. The year 2016 also marks the 175th anniversary of Sir Wilfrid Laurier, a great statesman who left an indelible mark on Canadian history.
Known as the father of modern Canada, he was also the first francophone to become Prime Minister of Canada. Throughout his political career, his vision has shaped the country that Canada has become. A visit to the historic site opens the doors on his amazing career and highlights a time when the country was experiencing a period of unprecedented development.
While visiting the historic house located on the family plot, visitors can also discover the customs and traditions of early 19th century families through more than 600 pieces of furniture and objects, which faithfully recreate the decor of a rural home of that period.
As we near the 150th anniversary of Confederation in 2017, the Government of Canada invites Canadians to experience Canada’s remarkable natural heritage and rich history in national parks and national historic sites this summer.
Quick facts
- Sir Wilfrid Laurier National Historic Site will be open daily from June 18 to September 5, from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- The old-style vegetable garden will surely spark gardeners’ curiosity.
- On Canada Day, the public can visit the historic site free of charge and enjoy a piece of birthday cake.
- Sunday Traditions are the perfect opportunity to meet enthusiasts of the traditional arts and learn ancestral techniques. Two dates are offered: July 17 and September 4, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
- August 14, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., you are invited to the Village Festival, where activities will include a corn-husking party, family activities and traditional music.
- To mark the 175th anniversary of Laurier’s birth, the doors will open November 20, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. For the occasion, cake and coffee will be served and a special talk on Laurier will be given.
Quote
“We are pleased to celebrate the 175th birthday of Wilfrid Laurier. This is an occasion to shed light on the work of this prominent politician. Sir Wilfrid Laurier National Historic Site provides both an opportunity to learn about our collective history and the life of Sir Wilfrid Laurier, a man to whom the Canada of today owes so much."
Carole Loiselle
Director, Mauricie and Western Quebec Field Unit, Parks Canada
Related link
Sir Wilfrid Laurier National Historic Site
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Information
Marie-Monique Jean-Baptiste
Public Relations and Communications Officer
Parks Canada Agency
Tel.: 514-283-5897 / Cell: 514-358-3432
marie-monique.jean-baptiste@pc.gc.ca
Media Relations
Parks Canada Agency
855-862-1812
pc.media@pc.gc.ca
A charming house
Enjoying time with family
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