New Iceland Heritage Museum hosts Freemasonry: A History Hidden in Plain Sight

Government of Canada investment helps bring exhibit to Gimli


GIMLI, MANITOBA--(Marketwired - July 1, 2015) - Department of Canadian Heritage

The Government of Canada is providing $8,925 to the New Iceland Heritage Museum to help host the exhibition Freemasonry:

A History Hidden in Plain Sight. This funding is provided through the Exhibition Circulation Fund of the Museums Assistance Program, which provides funding to Canadian museums and related institutions for projects that foster excellence in museum activities and facilitate access to the treasures of our collective heritage.

James Bezan, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of National Defence and Member of Parliament (Selkirk-Interlake), made this announcement today on behalf of the Honourable Shelly Glover, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages.

The exhibition opened on May 15 and is on display until September 15, 2015. The funding helps the organization host the exhibit, which originated at the Bruce County Museum and Cultural Centre in Southampton, Ontario. Activities include the intake and installation of the exhibit as well as its promotion in and around Gimli.

Quick Facts

  • The exhibition Freemasonry: A History Hidden in Plain Sight examines the history of Freemasonry and the role it plays in civic development and philanthropy in Canadian communities.
  • The local Masonic Lodge supplemented the exhibit with local artifacts and is providing tours and promotional support.
  • The New Iceland Heritage Museum proudly brings historical, cultural and fun events to Gimli.

Quotes

"Our Government is committed to giving Canadians access to our collective heritage. Celebrating the achievements of those who helped shape our country is extremely important, especially as we approach Canada's 150th anniversary. This exhibition helps promote understanding and appreciation of Masonic history."

-The Honourable Shelly Glover, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages

"I'm proud that our Government helped bring this great exhibit to Gimli. Thanks to this exhibit, residents and visitors alike will have an opportunity to discover a unique piece of our heritage and discover the works of these talented craftsmen."

-James Bezan, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of National Defence and Member of Parliament (Selkirk-Interlake)

"Presenting travelling exhibits each year is an integral part of what the New Iceland Heritage Museum does for its visitors. These exhibits cover a wide range of topics and bring new and diverse audiences to the museum. The support we receive from the Government of Canada helps make this happen."

-Tammy Axelsson, Executive Director, New Iceland Heritage Museum

Associated Links

New Iceland Heritage Museum

Bruce County Museum and Cultural Centre

Museums Assistance Program

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Contact Information:

Marisa Monnin
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage
and Official Languages
819-997-7788

Roxanne Carriere
A/Regional Manager, Communications
Prairies and Northern Region
Canadian Heritage
204-228-8866
roxanne.carriere@pch.gc.ca

Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
819-994-9101
1-866-569-6155
media@pch.gc.ca