For Immediate Release
May 18, 2007

John Baird introduces Parks Canada exhibit during grand reopening of the Bytown Museum

New Exhibit Commemorates 175th Anniversary of the Rideau Canal

(OTTAWA) – John Baird, Minister of the Environment and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, introduced yesterday an interpretive exhibit that illustrates the links between the Rideau Canal and the early years of Lt. Col. John By’s military settlement at Bytown. The Park Canada exhibit, introduced during the grand reopening of the Bytown Museum, is located along the Rideau Canal National Historic Site.

“Canada’s New Government is pleased to partner with the Bytown Museum to create new exhibits that tell the story of the creation of the Rideau Canal,” said Baird, who is the Member of Parliament for Ottawa West-Nepean. “This exhibit will help visitors understand the significance of this important time in the history of the great city of Ottawa.”

Through displays and artifacts, the exhibit brings to life the history of the canal - its construction, its role throughout history, and its importance, as a lasting symbol of turbulent times in Canadian history. The exhibit will be housed at the Bytown Museum, which is located within the original Commissariat Building built in 1827 as the treasury and storehouse for the canal builders.

The exhibit was made possible by a $100,000 contribution from the Federal Government as part of the overall Rideau 175 program to commemorate the 175th anniversary of the Rideau Canal.

Photo:  (L-R) John Baird, M.P. for Ottawa West-Nepean and Lt. Col. John By at the grand reopening ceremony of the Bytown Museum and the unveiling of their new exhibit commemorating the 175 anniversary of the Rideau Canal.
Photo:  John Baird, M.P. for Ottawa West-Nepean, addressing guests at the grand reopening of the Bytown Museum. The museum also unveiled a new exhibit to commemorate the 175th anniversary of the Rideau Canal. The exhibit was made possible by a $100,000 contribution from the Federal Government as part of the overall Rideau 175 program.

Further information:
Office of John Baird, MP                                                          
Ottawa West-Nepean
613-996-0984