Canadian Government Invests in War of 1812 Exhibition in Ontario

SOUTHAMPTON, Ontario, June 8, 2012 /Canada NewsWire/ - An investment in the Bruce County Museum and Cultural Centre's exhibition on the HMS General Hunter will give local residents and visitors the opportunity to take part in commemorative activities and learn more about the War of 1812. Support for the exhibition was announced today by Ben Lobb, Member of Parliament (Huron-Bruce), on behalf of the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages.

"Canada would not exist had the American invasion of 1812-1814 not been repelled; for that reason, the War of 1812 was a defining chapter in our history," said Minister Moore. "We invite all Canadians to learn more about this important part of our past and to take part in many of the activities and events that will pay tribute to our heroes."

With this funding, the Bruce County Museum and Cultural Centre will tell the story of the War of 1812 and the Battle of Lake Erie through an exhibition on the HMS General Hunter, a British warship that saw active duty during the War. Other planned activities include the production of short films about the ship's history, family programming, and historical conferences in partnership with local marine heritage societies. Over the next three years, about 20,000 visitors will be able to learn more about the history of this warship.

"By supporting this project, our Government is helping this cultural attraction in our community grow and giving Southampton's residents and visitors the opportunity to appreciate this important moment in our history," said Mr. Lobb. "We are proud to help commemorate the heroic efforts of our ancestors and tell the story of the Canada we know today."

"The Bruce County Museum and Cultural Centre Committee and Staff are thrilled to receive this grant from the Government of Canada War of 1812 Commemoration Fund," said Barbara Ribey, Director of the Bruce County Museum and Cultural Centre. This funding is particularly important in order for us to strengthen and grow the interest in our historical past. Today, especially children have knowledge gaps pertaining to our Canadian history, and it is our mandate to help tell those stories that define the beautiful country where we live for our visitors and residents alike."

The Government of Canada has provided funding of $90,000 through the War of 1812 Commemoration Fund of the Department of Canadian Heritage. The Fund supports community-based projects to foster greater awareness and understanding among Canadians of the importance of this event in our history.