The Government of Canada Invests in Laurier House National Historic Site
News Release
Restoration plan in the works for former Prime Ministers’ residence
November 17, 2016 Ottawa, 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.
The Government of Canada is investing more than $500,000 in Laurier House National Historic Site. At an event today celebrating the legacy of Sir Wilfrid Laurier, Andrew Leslie, Member of Parliament for Orleans and Chief Government Whip, made the announcement, on behalf of the Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, Catherine McKenna.
This funding will be used to address the condition of the exterior brick of the house, rehabilitate the woodwork on the windows, trim and verandah, and conduct repairs to the roof. As the official residence of two former Prime Ministers, Sir Wilfrid Laurier and the Right Honourable William Lyon Mackenzie King, the house remains a time capsule of over 10,000 original artefacts of national significance. Improvements to the site will enable Parks Canada to continue to tell the story of Laurier House’s role in the building of our nation, so Canadians can connect first-hand with their history.
Investments in the preservation, rehabilitation and restoration of our national parks and historic sites will protect our heritage and strengthen their appeal as destinations to celebrate our nation's achievements.
Quotes
“The Government is committed to preserving our national parks and national historic sites, while enabling more Canadians to experience the outdoors and learn about our environment and rich heritage. Federal infrastructure investments such as these are vital to creating middle class jobs and sustained economic growth, in communities across the country, while ensuring safe, high-quality and meaningful experiences for visitors.”
- The Honourable Catherine McKenna
Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister responsible for Parks Canada
“For nearly half a century, Laurier House stood witness to the lives of two Prime Ministers who oversaw great changes in Canada and today offers visitors unique insights into our political history. With this investment, the Government is protecting and preserving a treasured heritage place for years to come. As we near the 150th anniversary of Confederation in 2017, I encourage all Canadians, including youth and newcomers, to experience and learn more about our history with a visit to Laurier House National Historic Site.”
- The Honourable Andrew Leslie,
Member of Parliament for Orleans and Chief Government Whip
Quick facts
- Laurier House National Historic Site will offer free entry on November 19 and 20, with doors open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and special activities planned for visitors of all ages throughout the weekend
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Sir Wilfrid Laurier, Canada’s first Prime Minister from French Canadian descent, was born on November 20, 1841. Parks Canada is proud to celebrate his 175th birthday at Laurier House.
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William Lyon Mackenzie King left Laurier House to the people of Canada upon his death in 1950 and it remains a true reflection of the last day he lived there.
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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.
Associated Document
- Backgrounder: Parks Canada Infrastructure Investments for Laurier House National Historic Site – 2016
Associated links
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Contacts
Caitlin Workman
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Environment and Climate Change
819-938-9436
Media Relations
Parks Canada
1-855-862-1812
pc.media@pc.gc.ca
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