Conservation Work Complete at Battle of the Windmill National Historic Site
News Release
Site reopening marked by heritage lighthouse plaque presentation
August 22, 2016 Edwardsburg/Cardinal, Ontario Parks Canada Agency
Parks Canada is responsible for protecting and presenting nationally significant examples of Canada’s natural and cultural heritage. Our national historic sites reflect the rich and varied heritage of our nation and provide an opportunity for Canadians to learn more about our diverse history.
Following the completion of conservation work, Parks Canada and the Friends of Windmill Point recently celebrated the reopening of the Windmill Point Lighthouse, located at the Battle of the Windmill National Historic Site, with a plaque presentation to highlight its status as a heritage lighthouse.
This reopening ceremony marked the completion of $500K in federal infrastructure repairs to the lighthouse’s masonry, windows, doors, and roof. The site was closed in 2015 as repairs were undertaken, but today, visitors are once again able to climb to the top of the tower for a spectacular view of the St. Lawrence River.
The Battle of the Windmill National Historic Site serves as a memorial to those who fought and lost their lives in the 1838 Battle. A new exhibit on the first floor of the windmill will also facilitate an opportunity for visitors to discover more about the four day battle and the various individuals that played a large role in the fight that occurred on the grounds of the windmill.
Investments in preservation, rehabilitation, and restoration of our national historic sites protect our heritage and strengthen their appeal as destinations to celebrate our nation's achievements. 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.
Quotes
“The Windmill Point Lighthouse and Battle of the Windmill National Historic Site, two names for this site that each address the importance of this location at different periods in Canada’s history. The tower’s designation under the Heritage Lighthouse Protection Act is an additional reminder of the cultural connection this place has to our nation and Parks Canada is pleased that current and future generations will continue to discover and enjoy this site.”
Mr. Hugh Ostrom, Superintendent National Historic Sites, Georgian Bay and Ontario East Field Unit, Parks Canada
“Last summer our door was closed to allow for these important restorations to be done. We are grateful for the investment by Parks Canada that made this project possible. Today, we celebrate the presentation of a heritage lighthouse plaque, and we are very happy that visitors are again able to visit and appreciate this national historic site.”
Mr. Barry Brown, President, Friends of Windmill Point
Quick Facts
- The Battle of the Windmill National Historic Site was the location of an intense battle during the Rebellion of 1837-38; the longest battle ever fought in Upper Canada. The Battle of the Windmill victory prevented the invasion force from capturing Fort Wellington and cutting the St. Lawrence communications link, which would have left Upper Canada open to invasion.
- Before becoming Canada’s first Prime Minister, Sir John A. Macdonald was a lawyer who represented Battle of the Windmill rebel leader, Nils Gustaf von Schoultz, at his trial in Kingston.
- Parks Canada is investing an unprecedented $3 billion dollars over 5 years to support infrastructure work to heritage, visitor, waterway and highway assets located within national historic sites, national parks, and national marine conservation areas across Canada. These investments represent the largest federal infrastructure plan in the history of Parks Canada.
Related Product
Backgrounder: Federal Infrastructure Investments - Battle of the Windmill
Associated Links
Battle of the Windmill National Historic Site of Canada
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Contacts
Bruce MacMillan
Public Relations & Communications Officer
Georgian Bay and Ontario East Field Unit
Parks Canada
613-923-5261, extension 122
bruce.macmillan@pc.gc.ca
Media Relations
Parks Canada Agency
855-862-1812
pc.media@pc.gc.ca
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