Harper Government Recognizes the National Historic Significance of the War of 1812 Supply Route, Nine Mile Portage and Willow Depot

SIMCOE COUNTY, ON, Dec. 1, 2014 /CNW/ - The Honourable Kellie Leitch, Minister of Labour and Minister of Status of Women and Member of Parliament for Simcoe—Grey, on behalf of the Honourable Leona Aglukkaq, Minister of the Environment and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, today announced the designation of Nine Mile Portage and Willow Depot as a national historic event.

During the War of 1812, Nine Mile Portage and Willow Depot were part of an important supply route and crucial in provisioning the British post at Fort Michilimackinac after the supply line through Lake Erie and Detroit was cut in 1813. This, in turn, allowed the British forces, Aboriginal People, and fur traders to maintain control of the upper Great Lakes and the country west of Lake Michigan to the headwaters of the Mississippi River until the end of the war.

As our country nears its 150th birthday in 2017, the Government of Canada invites Canadians to learn more about the major events that have shaped their country's history. Canada's national historic sites enable us to experience our rich history and heritage in a special way and play a big part in the celebration of Canada 150.

Quick Facts

• Nine Mile Portage was a trail leading from Kempenfelt Bay on Lake Simcoe to Willow Creek, a tributary of the Nottawasaga River, which flows into Georgian Bay at Wasaga Beach.
• Willow Depot, located on high ground about a mile from Willow Creek, was built as a storage and transhipment post for goods coming over the portage.
• Parks Canada manages a nationwide network of 167 national historic sites, 44 national parks and four national marine conservation areas that make up the rich tapestry of Canada's cultural and natural heritage.

Quote

"Our Government is pleased to designate the Nine Mile Portage and Willow Depot as an event of national historic significance. This important supply route was of critical importance during the War of 1812 which helped define our heritage and shape the country we live in today. Our Government is committed to fostering a greater awareness of our nation's rich and diverse heritage."

The Honourable Kellie Leitch,
Minister of Labour and Minister of Status of Women and Member of Parliament for Simcoe—Grey,

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Associated Link

Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada
http://www.pc.gc.ca/eng/clmhc-hsmbc/index.aspx

SOURCE: Parks Canada

Media Relations, Parks Canada, 1-855-862-1812, www.twitter.com/parkscanada