SHELBURNE, Nova Scotia, June 5, 2008 -- The 225th anniversary of the first Loyalists landing in Shelburne, Nova Scotia, will be celebrated, thanks to an investment by the Government of Canada.
Gerald Keddy, Member of Parliament (South Shore-St. Margaret's), on behalf of the Honourable Josée Verner, Minister of Canadian Heritage, Status of Women and Official Languages and Minister for La Francophonie, today announced funding for the Shelburne County Archives and Genealogical Society.
Funding of $4,000 will help the Shelburne County Archives and Genealogical Society present a variety of activities to celebrate the 225th anniversary of the Loyalists landing in Shelburne, which is recognized as the first Loyalist settlement in Canada. Celebrations, to be held from June 6 to November 30, 2008, will offer residents and visitors an opportunity to attend concerts and various arts performances, as well as a historic re-enactment and history and heritage conferences.
"The Government of Canada is pleased to announce funding for the Shelburne County Archives and Genealogical Society," said Minister Verner. "We are proud to partner with communities to support activities that celebrate local history, arts, and heritage."
"Festivals like this one bring people of all ages and backgrounds together and contribute to the quality of life in our communities," said Mr. Keddy. "I am proud that our Government supports this important initiative that celebrates the richness of our culture and our history."
"The 225th anniversary of the landing of the Loyalists in Shelburne is an important event in our community," said Wallace Buchanan, President of the Shelburne County Archives and Genealogical Society. "Without the incredible work of volunteers and the financial support of the Department of Canadian Heritage, our numerous activities in celebration of this event would not be possible."
The Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage program, announced in September 2007, provides Canadians with more opportunities to take part in local activities that present arts and culture and celebrate local history and heritage. This program will benefit many community events and celebrations in Canada.
The Government of Canada is committed to building stronger communities and to providing all Canadians with opportunities to get involved in their communities and in celebrating Canadian arts and heritage.
