NORFOLK, ON, July 5, 2012 /CNW/ - An investment from the Government of Canada in Norfolk's local heritage will help commemorate the War of 1812, promote tourism, and stimulate the local economy. Support for the Port Dover Harbour Museum's project The Lion on the Lake was announced today by the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development and Member of Parliament (Haldimand-Norfolk), on behalf of the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages.
On August 11 and 12, The Lion on the Lake 1812 Bicentennial Pageant will commemorate the events of early August 1812, when Major-General Isaac Brock rallied the citizen-soldiers of the local militia before embarking with them at Dover to capture Fort Detroit. This commemorative event, along with other local activities, is expected to attract up to 6,000 people to Port Dover.
"In 1812, British troops, Canadian militia, and First Nations and Métis allies joined together to defend our borders. They fought for Canada and repelled the American invasion," said Minister Moore. "Without their bravery, the country we know today would not exist."
"Two hundred years ago, our ancestors played a part in ensuring the independent destiny of our country," said Minister Finley. "I invite everyone from the Norfolk region and from across Ontario to join us in commemorating this significant moment in our history."
"This support has made our project possible. The pageant will combine a wide range of grassroots artistic expressions in the re-telling of one of the most fascinating but little-known local stories of Norfolk County," said Ian Bell of the Port Dover Harbour Museum. "The participation of community members is a key feature. Youth and adults will be learning new skills and creating a legacy that can live on."
The Port Dover Harbour Museum, located on the waterfront, interprets the maritime history of Port Dover and the surrounding area on Lake Erie. Port Dover was burned to the ground during an American raid in the War of 1812 and has significant history in relation to the War.
The Government of Canada has provided funding of $10,100 through Canadian Heritage's War of 1812 Commemoration Fund. The Fund supports community-based projects to foster greater awareness and understanding of the importance of this conflict.
Visit 1812.gc.ca to learn more about the 200th anniversary of the War of 1812.
media only:
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.)
Share this article