Harper Government Invests in the Fanshawe Pioneer Village

LONDON, Ontario, November 10, 2011 – Visitors will be able to enjoy historical experiences year round at Fanshawe Pioneer Village thanks to an investment by the Government of Canada. This was announced today by Ed Holder, Member of Parliament (London West), on behalf of the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages.

With this investment, the London and Middlesex Heritage Museum—owner and operator of London’s Fanshawe Pioneer Village—will design and construct the Spriet Family Visitor Centre. The construction project will result in a modern facility with increased collection storage space and new exhibition and public spaces. Once completed, the Village will be able to offer year-round exhibitions and programming, including an exhibit on the impact of the War of 1812.

“Our Government received a strong mandate from Canadians to invest in projects that commemorate important historical events and provide opportunities for Canadians to celebrate our shared history,” said Minister Moore. “By supporting Fanshawe Pioneer Village, our Government is delivering on its commitment to strengthen our economy and support our arts, culture, and heritage.”

“I am delighted to see our Government support the expansion projects of Fanshawe Pioneer Village,” said Mr. Holder. “This investment will enable the facility to offer year-round exhibitions and programming and provide our community with memorable historical experiences.”

“We are truly thankful for the incredible support shown by the Government of Canada to the Spriet Family Visitor Centre,” said Gord MacKenzie, Chair of the BIG ON HISTORY! Capital Campaign Cabinet. “This significant contribution stands as a fine example of Canadian support for an important regional project and emphasizes the essential role of Fanshawe Pioneer Village in the preservation of our past for future generations.”

The Government of Canada has provided funding of $1,000,000 through the Canada Cultural Spaces Fund of the Department of Canadian Heritage. This program seeks to improve physical conditions for artistic creativity and arts presentation or exhibition. It is also designed to increase access for Canadians to performing, visual, and media arts, and to museum collections and heritage displays.

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