The Government of Canada Supports Crowsnest Historical Society

October 20, 2007

COLEMAN, Alberta – On behalf of the Honourable Josée Verner, Minister of Canadian Heritage, Status of Women and Official Languages, Ted Menzies, Member of Parliament (Macleod), today announced funding for the Crowsnest Historical Society.

Funding of $23,000 will be used by the Crowsnest Historical Society to organize, catalogue, index, and digitize a newly acquired photographic collection donated by photographer Evan Gushul. The photos provide valuable historic information on the Crowsnest Pass area between 1914 and 1960.

“The Government of Canada is committed to supporting facilities that enrich the cultural life of our communities and create a legacy of excellence,” said Minister Verner. “We are proud to support local heritage institutions, which are important to the development of communities across Canada.”

“Museum employees and volunteers are committed to strengthening Canadians’ awareness of our rich heritage and cultural diversity,” said Mr. Menzies. “I am delighted that citizens in my riding are able to access museum collections that preserve an important part of the community’s history.”

“The Crowsnest Historical Society is grateful for this funding from the Museums Assistance Program,” said Donna Kubian, President of the Crowsnest Historical Society. “This support has made it possible for us to continue preserving the rich history of the Crowsnest Pass and its people and to help sustain the economic future of our community.”

The Crowsnest Historical Society, established in 1974, is an incorporated non-profit museum that manages 50 000 objects, including a comprehensive document and photo archive. As a result of this photo management and conservation project, the Crowsnest Historical Society will enhance its photographic collection and increase its ability to share and interpret the history of the community of Coleman and Alberta’s Crowsnest Pass area.

The Government of Canada has provided this funding under the Museum Assistance Program of the Department of Canadian Heritage. The program provides financial support to Canadian museums and related institutions for projects that foster excellence in museum activities and that facilitate access to the treasures of our collective heritage.

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Information:

Richard Walker
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of
Canadian Heritage, Status of Women and Official Languages
819 994-5978


Ginette Montreuil
Regional Manager
Communications
Western Region
Canadian Heritage
604 666-6504