Canadian Museum of History celebrates near completion of its new signature gallery

MEDIA RELEASE

For immediate release

Gatineau, Quebec, May 24, 2017 — The Canadian Museum of History is proud to announce the imminent opening of its new signature gallery, the Canadian History Hall. The Hall is the largest and most comprehensive exhibition on Canadian history ever developed, and offers a compelling new take on Canada’s national story. Opening July 1, 2017, the Hall is one of the premier legacy projects marking the 150th anniversary of Confederation.

“The Canadian History Hall is a ground-breaking exhibition in virtually every respect — from its evocative architecture, to the quality of its artifacts, to its captivating use of personal stories to bring our history to life,” said Mark O’Neill, President and CEO of the Canadian Museum of History. “The Hall will be a wonderful addition to Canada’s cultural landscape during the sesquicentennial, and for decades to come.”

The Canadian History Hall traces the history of Canada and its people over some 15,000 years, from the dawn of human habitation to the present day. Through authentic artifacts and compelling stories, the Hall invites visitors to explore the events, personalities and historical currents that have shaped, and continue to shape, this vast country.

The Hall is remarkable for its focus on sharing Canada’s story through the experiences of real people, for its presentation of multiple perspectives, and for its willingness to examine all sides of Canada’s story, both the struggles and the achievements. Most importantly, perhaps, its focus — how we became the country we are today — makes history relevant and meaningful to visitors.

The exhibition provides a stunning showcase for more than 1,500 artifacts, including many of Canada’s important historical treasures. Notable objects include the handcuffs worn to the gallows by Louis Riel, an astrolabe attributed to Champlain, Lester B. Pearson’s Nobel Peace Prize medal, and a T-shirt worn by Terry Fox during his Marathon of Hope.

Development of the Hall took five years of intense research, planning and renovation. The process was informed at every stage by unprecedented programs of public outreach and community consultation, and with input from scholars and other experts across the country.

Occupying 4,000 square metres (40,000 square feet) of exhibition space on two floors, it is the most ambitious exhibition project ever undertaken by the Museum. The result, as visitors will see for themselves on July 1, is a testament to the impact of individual lives on a country’s history — and a compelling representation of the tapestry of life, as reflected in the story of Canada and its people.

Located on the shores of the Ottawa River in Gatineau, Quebec, the Canadian Museum of History welcomes over 1.2 million visitors each year. The Museum’s principal role is to enhance Canadians’ knowledge, understanding and appreciation of the events, experiences, people and objects that have shaped Canada’s history and identity, as well as to enhance Canadians’ awareness of world history and culture. Work of the Canadian Museum of History is made possible in part through financial support of the Government of Canada.

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Media contacts:
Stéphanie Verner
Media Relations Officer
Telephone: 819-776-7169
Email: stephanie.verner@historymuseum.ca

Éliane Laberge
Social Media and Media Relations Officer
Telephone: 819-776-7097
Email: eliane.laberge@historymuseum.ca