May 16 marks the official opening of the 2009
Provincial Historic Sites season.
Located in various regions across Newfoundland and
Labrador, Provincial Historic Sites provide visitors the opportunity to
learn about our province�s culture and heritage � who we are, where we
come from, the history of lighthouses, the lives of the Beothucks, and
so much more.
"Each year, thousands of residents and tourists alike
take the time to visit the incredible Provincial Historic Sites located
across Newfoundland and Labrador," said the Honourable Clyde Jackman,
Minister of Tourism, Culture and Recreation. "These sites give visitors
a glimpse into our past, while promoting more understanding and
appreciation for the history that has shaped our province and our
people."
Since the release of the Provincial Government�s
cultural strategy Creative Newfoundland and Labrador in 2006,
$2.95 million has been committed to the revitalization of Provincial
Historic Sites, including a new investment of $350,000 from Budget 2009.
"This funding has been used to protect the structural
integrity of the buildings; to modernize the presentation of exhibits to
make them more meaningful and relevant to visitors, and to provide
enhanced programming at the sites," said Minister Jackman.
This year, Provincial Historic Sites across
Newfoundland and Labrador will offer visitors several special program
events, starting with World Wide Knit in Public Day on June 13. Knitting
events are scheduled to be held at: Quidi Vidi Battery (June 13);
Commissariat House, St. John�s (June 14); Hiscock House, Trinity (June
20-21), and Point Amour Lighthouse (June 21). For more information on
WWKiP Day, visit: www.wwkipday.com
For more information on Provincial Historic Sites,
visit:
www.gov.nl.ca/tcr/historicsites
