Repurposing a Historical Building in the Eastern Townships

MAGOG, QUEBEC--(Marketwired - Aug. 5, 2016) - Department of Canadian Heritage

The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Canadian Heritage, today announced $600,000 in funding for the Ville de Magog's redevelopment of Merry House, a historical residence located in the heart of Magog.

This funding, made by the Government of Canada through the Canada Cultural Spaces Fund, will enable the Ville de Magog to construct a new annex featuring a multipurpose space, as well as to purchase modern museum display equipment.

Quick Facts

• Merry House-built in 1821 by the first permanent settler in Magog, Ralph Merry III-was handed down through the generations of the Merry family, who played an active part in the development of the town.
• Merry House is the oldest residence in Magog's urban area. It has great architectural and heritage value, and it serves as a symbol of the settlement and development of the Eastern Townships at the beginning of the 19^th century.
• The planned redevelopment will enable Merry House to welcome the public and present temporary exhibitions on local history, as well as various types of cultural activities.
• With the acquisition of technological equipment, Merry House will become compliant with current professional standards and be able to give its visitors an immersive augmented reality experience.

Quotes

"The Government of Canada is pleased to help make Merry House a vital heritage and cultural site in the Eastern Townships. The work of redevelopment and the use of high-tech equipment will enable visitors to discover the history of Magog and its surroundings in a unique way."

- The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Canadian Heritage

"Heritage institutions play a vital role in preserving our history and identity. Merry House, a jewel in the crown of the Eastern Township's built heritage, will be better able to welcome Canadians together and provide them with greater access to the arts and culture-two sources of inspiration and reflection."

- The Honourable Denis Paradis, Member of Parliament (Brome-Missisquoi)

"The Government of Canada's financial participation will serve as an extraordinary lever in the funding campaign that we launched a few months ago. This contribution also confirms the undeniable interest of what will become a 'citizen's memorial.' Once it gets redesigned according to a completely innovative concept, Merry House will make it possible to share the proud heritage and history of the settlement pattern, economic development and cultural practices of Magog and the region."

- Vicki-May Hamm, Mayor of Magog

Associated Links

Ville de Magog (French only)

Canada Cultural Spaces Fund

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