July 26, 2011
Colony of Avalon Undertakes Upgrades That Enhance Visitor Experience
Through a Provincial Government investment of $95,493, the Colony of Avalon is undertaking upgrades that will enhance the visitor experience. Located in Ferryland, the Colony of Avalon attracted more than 20,500 visitors last year and continued improvements will invite further economic activity and create new business opportunities in the region.
The announcement was made today by the Honourable Susan Sullivan, Minister of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development, at the Gentleman’s Garden at the Colony of Avalon. The MHA for Ferryland, Keith Hutchings, along with officials from the Colony of Avalon joined Minister Sullivan at the announcement.
“The Colony of Avalon is an important cultural asset and an important tourism driver for the Irish Loop,” said Minister Sullivan. “The continued re-creation of Lord Baltimore's Colony has fostered economic growth not only in Ferryland but the entire region. Restaurants, bed and breakfasts, tour operators and other service-related ventures all benefit from this site.”
The upgrades identified by the Colony of Avalon Foundation are essential for the preservation of one of the most significant archaeological digs in North America. The goal of enhancing the overall visitor experience will be attained through improvements to the grounds and infrastructure that will extend the long-term viability of the buildings and site.
“The Colony of Avalon is a tremendous archaeological site representing early settlement on the Southern Shore,” said MHA Hutchings. “It is a cornerstone of the local industry that attracts over 20,000 visitors to the region each year and is a significant economic driver. This investment recognizes our government’s commitment to the site and the important role it plays in the region’s history. I also would like to recognize the volunteer board members for there efforts in working together to continue to enhance and improve the Colony of Avalon for the benefit of the whole region.”
The Colony of Avalon is one of the oldest English Settlements in North America. Lord Baltimore’s colony, established in Ferryland in 1621, is an internationally significant heritage site. More than two million artifacts have been uncovered, as well as numerous well-preserved features such as a cobblestone street, fireplaces, a wharf, a stone-walled well, a privy and a forge.
“The archaeological discoveries and interpretation that take place at the Colony of Avalon tell an incredible story, drawing visitors from around the world and supporting regional economic growth,” said Patti Broughton, Executive Director, Colony of Avalon. “We are grateful for the vision of the Provincial Government in supporting a project that will enhance our visitors’ experience and protect an important heritage resource.”
This initiative was funded through the Regional/Sectoral Diversification Fund. This program, through Budget 2011 Standing Strong: For Prosperity. For Our Future. For Newfoundland and Labrador, has $5 million available for investment. Administered by the Department of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development, the program provides non-repayable contributions to economic development agencies for initiatives that address regional and sectoral development and diversification.
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Media contacts:
| Scott Barfoot Director of Communications Department of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development 709-729-4570, 690-6290 scottbarfoot@gov.nl.ca |
Donna Ivey Communications Manager Government Members Office 709-729-0898, 697-1424 donnaivey@gov.nl.ca |
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Patti Broughton Executive Director Colony of Avalon Foundation 709-432-3200 |
2011 07 26 2:20 p.m.