Toronto Museum Project online creates an interactive domain for Toronto
history

TORONTO, March 6 /CNW/ - Mayor David Miller, along with many of the Toronto Museum Project online participants, launched an innovative website (http://www.torontomuseumproject.ca) on the occasion of the City of Toronto's 176th birthday at Fort York National Historic Site. The website can now be viewed and used by the public.

"This unique project increases public access to, and discussion about, the more than 150,000 objects that are currently part of the City of Toronto's Historical Collection, as well as other items of historical interest held by the community," said Mayor David Miller. "This project is an inventive new way for Torontonians to engage objects, stories and ideas, and to reflect on what they mean for the city's past, present and future."

The Toronto Museum Project online (TMp Online) is a virtual exhibit where artifacts are used to explore stories and ideas tied to Toronto's past, present and future. This interactive website weaves 100 artifacts, 100 Torontonians, 100 stories and 100 exhibit ideas into an entirely new way of exploring Toronto's history.

One-hundred Torontonians of diverse backgrounds were invited to react to these artifacts by sharing their personal stories that were inspired by viewing them. A number of stories were provided by prominent Toronto politicians, artists, community members and cultural figures. This online process allows the public to build a greater collective understanding of how we define and interact with the City's historic treasures. Contributors Shakil Ahkter, Amna Basit, David Crombie and Evelyn Siu shared their story submissions at the launch event.

Through TMp Online, the public will gain a new appreciation of Toronto's richness. The images, stories and ideas form an exhibit which speaks to the many ways we come together to create community in the city.

TMp Online partners include Ecentricarts, York University's Augmented Reality Lab, Brookview Middle School and The Toronto Star. The City of Toronto's Museum Services is responsible for the Toronto Museum Project.

Toronto is Canada's largest city and sixth largest government, and home to a diverse population of about 2.6 million people. It is the economic engine of Canada and one of the greenest and most creative cities in North America. Toronto has won numerous awards for quality, innovation and efficiency in delivering public services. Toronto's government is dedicated to prosperity, opportunity and liveability for all its residents. For information about non-emergency City services and programs, Toronto residents, businesses and visitors can dial 311, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

This project was made possible with the support of the Department of Canadian Heritage through the Canadian Culture Online Strategy.

Visit our website at www.toronto.ca

For further information: Media contact: Shane Gerard, Senior Promotions & Communications Coordinator, Cluster A Communications Unit, [phone], [email protected]