The Honourable Clyde Jackman, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Recreation, today welcomed news that the early 20^th century schooner Bowdoin will visit 12 communities in Newfoundland and Labrador as part of this year�s Celebrating Bartlett 2009 events.

Details of the ports program and the Bowdoin�s visit were announced today by the Historic Sites Association of Newfoundland and Labrador, which is organizing a series of corresponding activities and events to highlight and celebrate the life and legacy of world-renowned Arctic explorer and mariner Captain Bob Bartlett of Brigus.

"The visit of the Bowdoin, and all the associated activities, will bring the Bartlett celebrations to regions throughout Newfoundland and Labrador," said Minister Jackman. "It will also serve to showcase this province � and Captain Bob Bartlett�s remarkable story � to the rest of the country and, indeed, to the world."

The Bowdoin, which is based at the Maine Marine Academy, is an expeditionary schooner from Bartlett�s era with a history of Arctic exploration. It is the only schooner built solely for the purpose of Arctic expeditions, and is the official vessel for the State of Maine. In July and August, it will visit Brigus, St. John�s, Old Perlican, Bonavista, Twillingate, St. Anthony, Battle Harbour, Cartwright, L�Anse au Loup, Port au Choix, Norris Point and Corner Brook. Details can be viewed at www.bartlett2009.com.

"Captain Bob Bartlett embodies the spirit of determination, perseverance and independence that defines the Newfoundland and Labrador character," Minister Jackman added. "The Provincial Government is proud to have committed $400,000 to support the Bartlett celebrations, and the Historic Sites Association�s efforts to preserve and honour the Bartlett legacy."

Edward Roberts, Chair of the Celebrating Bartlett 2009 Steering Committee, said organizers felt it was important to have a working Bartlett-era schooner as a focal point in the touring program.

"We are very excited about the ports program we have in place for this summer," said Mr. Roberts. "It is indeed a great privilege to have the schooner Bowdoin sailing around the province and enabling Newfoundlanders and Labradorians to see first-hand the type of schooner which Bartlett sailed for many years to the Far North."

The Historic Sites Association of Newfoundland and Labrador (HSA) is a volunteer, non-profit organization that works in partnership with Parks Canada. Its mandate is to protect, preserve and promote the province's history and heritage.

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