CHARLOTTETOWN, Nov. 16, 2012 /CNW/ - Islanders will have a chance to take part in the 200th anniversary of the War of 1812, thanks to an investment from the Government of Canada. Funding for the Prince Edward Island Regiment Museum was announced today by the Honourable Gail Shea, Minister of National Revenue and Member of Parliament (Egmont), on behalf of the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages.
The Museum will develop a number of initiatives commemorating the War of 1812 as part of the Provincial Heritage Fair. Such initiatives include permanent and travelling exhibits and the launch of a book about the Glengarry Light Infantry.
"This year marks the start of the five-year countdown to Canada's 150th birthday in 2017," said Minister Moore. "Our Government is proud to invest in projects that contribute to our collective identity and define who we are as Canadians. On the road to 2017, let us continue to celebrate all of the things that make Canada the united, prosperous and free country we are today."
"I invite all Islanders to participate in the commemoration of the 200th anniversary of the War of 1812 and to learn more about our role in shaping Canada," said Minister Shea. "Incorporating this theme in various educational activities will help us better understand how our ancestors came together to defend our land and build the independent and free country we know today."
"The Museum and its partners are thrilled to receive this grant," said Lieutenant-Colonel Glenn Moriarity, Director, Prince Edward Island Regiment Museum. "This funding is particularly important in order for us to strengthen and nurture the interest in our historical past, raise awareness, and address the knowledge gap regarding the Island's participation in this defining moment of Canadian history. It is our mandate to tell those stories that illustrate the rich military history of the Birthplace of Confederation for both our residents and visitors alike."
The Prince Edward Island Regiment Museum, located in Charlottetown, has the mandate to collect, preserve, research and exhibit artifacts that illustrate the history and heritage of military forces in Prince Edward Island.
The Government of Canada has provided funding of $37,450 through Canadian Heritage's 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.
SOURCE: Canadian Heritage
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