The S.S. Klondike commemorates inland water transportation in the Yukon and is an iconic symbol of Whitehorse
Parks Canada protects and presents national historic sites, national parks and national marine conservation areas in Canada, enabling people to discover and connect with history and nature, and helping sustain the economic value of these places for local and regional communities.
Today, Dr. Brendan Hanley, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Northern and Arctic Affairs and Member of Parliament for Yukon, on behalf of the Minister responsible for Parks Canada, the Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture and Minister responsible for Official Languages, announced a $14.2 million investment for structural improvements and remediation work at the S.S. Klondike National Historic Site in Whitehorse, Yukon.
This federal funding will support Parks Canada's muti-year conservation project of the S.S. Klondike to protect this historic wooden sternwheeler by improving the structural stability and removing lead-containing paint, while rehabilitating and weatherproofing the vessel. A project on the neighbouring historic Atlin barge to reconstruct the hull, decking, and railings, and improve accessibility will be completed this year.
From the 1860s to the 1950s sternwheelers served as the main link between the Yukon and the outside world and were aided by the barges working alongside these vessels. Conservation efforts on the S.S. Klondike will be helped by a historic shipsaw - a large, specialized band saw that can create rolling bevels in one continuous cut, to cut pieces of wood to reinforce the curved angles of a boat. The artifact was moved from Bear Creek near Dawson City and retrofitted for use on this project.
Through infrastructure investments, the Government of Canada conserves national treasures for future generations, supports local economies and benefits local tourism. This investment will ensure public safety, enhance visitor experiences, and protect built heritage in Canada.
