Harper Government Boosts Tourism by Investing in War of 1812 Commemorations in New Brunswick

FREDERICTON, March 19, 2012 /CNW/ - Important commemorations for the 200^th anniversary of the War of 1812 will boost tourism and celebrate the history of Fredericton and the surrounding area, thanks to investments from the Government of Canada. Support for two projects in New Brunswick was announced by the Honourable Keith Ashfield, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, Minister for the Atlantic Gateway, and Member of Parliament (Fredericton), on behalf of the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages.

"Canada would not exist had the American invasion not been repelled during the War of 1812; for that reason, the War was a defining chapter in our history," said Minister Moore. "We invite all Canadians to learn more about the War of 1812 and take part in many of the activities and events that will pay tribute to our heroes."

The St. John River Society and the Fredericton Region Museum will both receive funding for projects to help New Brunswickers learn more about the role played by the province during the War. Activities include a re-enactment of the March of the 104^th Regiment of Foot and a special museum exhibit.

During the War of 1812, the 104^th Regiment of Foot marched more than 1100 kilometres from Fredericton to Kingston, Ontario, to reinforce British troops and thwart an expected invasion by the Americans. This effort by a regiment of poorly clothed, frostbitten, and hungry soldiers stands as an incredible feat in military history.

"By supporting these activities, our Government is giving residents of New Brunswick and tourists from outside the province the opportunity to appreciate this important moment in our history," said Minister Ashfield. "We are proud to help celebrate the heroic efforts of our ancestors and tell the story of the Canada we know today."

"The financial support from the Government of Canada is essential to the success of our many activities commemorating the War of 1812 in our province," said Peter Pacey, Chair of the St. John River Society War of 1812 Commemoration Committee. "New Brunswick played a pivotal role in the War of 1812 and Canada's road to nationhood. This funding, along with strong partnerships, will allow us the opportunity to share this heritage with citizens and communities in our province."

"We believe it is very important to commemorate historical events such as the War of 1812, and we are pleased to have the support of the Government of Canada," said Fred White, President of the York Sunbury Historical Society, which operates the Fredericton Region Museum. "Our special exhibit would not be possible without funding from programs such as the 1812 Commemoration Fund. This exhibit will be an excellent way to highlight New Brunswick's rich heritage and the legacy of the War of 1812."

The Government of Canada has provided total funding of $149,860 ($142,060 for the St. John River Society and $7,800 for the Fredericton Region Museum) through Canadian Heritage's War of 1812 Commemoration Fund. The Fund supports community-based projects to foster greater awareness and understanding among Canadians of the importance of this moment in our history.

For more information, visit 1812.gc.ca.

(media only), please contact:

Sébastien Gariépy
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage
and Official Languages
819-997-7788

Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
819-994-9101
1-866-569-6155
[email protected]

(This news release is available on the Internet at www.canadianheritage.gc.ca under Newsroom.)