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NLIS 8 July 26, 2002 (Industry, Trade and Rural Development) Governments announce funding for new exhibit Gerry Byrne, Minister of State for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA), and Julie Bettney, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Recreation, on behalf of Kelvin Parsons, Minister of Industry, Trade and Rural Development, announced funding in the amount of $31,275 today for a new exhibit at the Admiralty House Museum and Archives. The funds will be provided under the Culture and Heritage Industries element of the Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Comprehensive Economic Development Agreement. Patrick Walsh, chairman of the Board of Management of Admiralty House Museum and Archives, describes the new exhibit as a "commemoration and interpretation of the S.S. Florizel maritime disaster of 1918." The only SOS from the vessel was received at H.M. Wireless Station, now Admiralty House Museum and Archives. Forty-four people survived the freezing wreck for 27 hours awaiting rescue. The S.S. Florizel was the pride of the Bowring Red Cross Line and the first ship of her kind. She had a notable history as a sealing ship, and a troop ship transporting the Newfoundland Regiment, the Blue Puttees across the Atlantic. "The Government of Canada is pleased to support this project, which adds immeasurably to our understanding of both our maritime history, and the role we have played in the development of communications technology," said Minister Byrne. "I congratulate Admiralty House on the extensive work they have undertaken to bring this piece of our history to life for us, and for future generations." "This new exhibit at Admiralty House celebrates and preserves the history the S.S. Florizel and its importance in the history of Newfoundland and Labrador�s communications technology," said Minister Bettney. "This project is a significant investment in our culture. By investing in it, we are demonstrating government�s support for tourism and culture development in Newfoundland and Labrador." The exhibit will include a scale model of the ship, a full size re-creation of the Marconi wireless room from the deck of the Florizel, display cabinets and information panels. Artifacts and archival materials will also be on display or available for researchers. Museum and project coordinator Alasdair Black noted that the museum "wishes to acquire any information regarding the S.S. Florizel, and is particularly interested in any documents or items from the ship that may have survived the wreck and are in safe keeping in homes around the province. Donations are always welcome, however access to items for research is also requested. With the assistance of interested parties the Florizel project will create a comprehensive centre of study for all." Admiralty House Museum and Archives is a community non-profit organization. The building and grounds are owned and maintained by the City of Mount Pearl Parks and Recreation Department. Guided tours are available throughout the year and the meeting room is available for public rental. A series of special museum events are also offered throughout the year. Media contact:
2002 07 26 4:25 p.m. |
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