Government of Canada Invests in Woodside National Historic Site
News release
Parks Canada's infrastructure projects help to protect our built heritage
December 6, 2018 Kitchener, Ontario Parks Canada Agency
Preserving heritage landmarks brings history alive for Canadians. Canadians love to connect with our history and learn about all those who have contributed to the building of our great country. National historic sites preserve our natural and cultural heritage for Canadians today, and for our children and grandchildren.
The Government of Canada is investing $521,000 in Woodside National Historic Site, Willian Lyon Mackenzie King's childhood home. Today, Raj Saini, Member of Parliament for Kitchener Central, on behalf of the Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, Catherine McKenna, highlighted the important federal infrastructure investments being made in this important heritage site. This work will enhance an important part of Canada's history, while improving visitor safety and experience.
Recent work to replace the roof on the historic house, along with upgrades to the security system will ensure that Woodside is secure and well protected from fire and the natural elements for many years to come. In the near future, Woodside's attractive grounds will see the rehabilitation of the pathways, as well as lighting upgrades. These improvements will increase accessibility around the site, improving visitor experience at this nationally significant location.
As a leader in conservation of built heritage, Parks Canada ensures the work taking place at these important national historic sites adhere to strict guidelines and standards in order to maintain the historic value of the site.
Throughout 2018 and beyond, Parks Canada has made discovering nature and connecting with our history easier and more affordable for families with free admission for youth aged 17 and under and new Canadians.
Additional multimedia
"Thanks to the improved infrastructure at Woodside National Historic Site, current and future visitors will be able to take full advantage of this beautiful 11 acre space nestled in Kitchener, Ontario. Through investments in the protection and restoration of our national historic sites, Parks Canada is helping to preserve our heritage, while inviting us to celebrate our nation's achievements. Through this important work, you will find a rejuvenated national historic site which will encourage more Canadians, including youth and newcomers, to discover and enjoy one of the finest and most extensive systems of protected areas in the world."
Raj Saini,
Member of Parliament for Kitchener Centre
Quick facts
Woodside National Historic Site, located in Kitchener, Ontario, is the boyhood home of William Lyon Mackenzie King, Canada's tenth, and longest-serving Prime Minister.
This year marks the 110th anniversary of the beginning of Mackenzie King's political career with his election as Member of Parliament for Waterloo North.
Parks Canada is investing an unprecedented $3 billion over five years to support infrastructure work to heritage, tourism, waterway, and highway assets located within national historic sites, national parks, and national marine conservation areas across Canada. This investment will ensure these cherished places are protected and secured for the future.
