Commemoration of the National Historic Significance of Niagara-on-the-Lake Historic District Site of Canada

May 26, 2006

NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE, ONTARIO – The Government of Canada commemorates the national historic significance of the Niagara-on-the-Lake Historic District. A Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada plaque was unveiled today on behalf of the Honourable Rona Ambrose, Minister of the Environment and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, by the Honourable Robert Nicholson, Leader of the Government in the House of Commons and Minister for Democratic Reform.

“Canada’s New Government will continue to recognize and support Canada’s diverse culture and shared history by commemorating the great people and places in our nation’s history, in the hope that it will inspire future generations to continue in the work of building a better Canada,” said Minister Ambrose.

Historic districts are defined by the Board as geographical areas that create a special sense of time and place through buildings, structures and open spaces, modified by human use and united by past events or architecture and plan.

The ongoing restoration and conservation of Niagara-on-the-Lake’s architectural heritage is a result of the strong commitment by its residents. Since the 1950s, numerous groups have formed and dedicated themselves to preserving the town’s history. Their devotion has led to the historic district becoming one of the town’s greatest resources, attracting over 1.5 million tourists annually.

“The commemoration of Niagara-on-the-Lake Historic District by the Government of Canada will help Canadians to learn more about the contribution this wonderful town has made to the development and growth of our nation,” said Minister Nicholson.

Created in 1919, the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada advises the Minister of the Environment regarding the national historic significance of people, persons and events that have marked Canada’s history. The placement of a commemorative plaque represents an official recognition of historic value. It is one means of informing the public about the richness of our cultural heritage which must be preserved for present and future generations.

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