Government of Yukon
Archives
FOR RELEASE #05-270
October 24, 2005
Taylor Announces Capital Funding For MacBride Museum
WHITEHORSE - The Yukon government is supporting MacBride Museum with $500,000 in capital funding that will be used to enhance existing infrastructure for exhibits and programming.
"The MacBride Museum plays an important role on the Whitehorse waterfront by protecting Yukon heritage and promoting cultural tourism. This funding will assist MacBride to continue its commitment to preserving Yukon heritage," Tourism and Culture Minister Elaine Taylor said. "Museums are indeed the stewards of Canada's heritage and whether they are large or small, each adds an important element to the cultural, social, educational and economic assets in our communities."
The $500,000 funding from the Yukon government offers an opportunity for the museum to leverage additional funds from the Federal Cultural Spaces Canada program. The funding will go toward a planned 3,000 square foot expansion on the existing MacBride Museum site.
There will be increased exhibit space to showcase artifacts, presently kept in storage including a permanent exhibit on the role of Whitehorse in the evolution of Yukon. The additional space will also give the museum the opportunity to increase their programs and events made available to the public and educators.
"MacBride Museum appreciates the support of the Yukon government and the recognition of MacBride's important role in education, community building and tourism in the Yukon," board chair Kerry Wahl said. "These funds, along with the Government of Canada's contribution, will ensure greater access to artifacts and documents generously donated by Yukoners."
MacBride Museum holds 40 per cent of the total artifacts held by Yukon museums. Of the MacBride collection, 94.5 per cent is in storage. In addition to increased access to exhibits and research materials, this planned expansion will provide enhanced security, safety and care of the artifacts entrusted to MacBride Museum.
"The partnerships we forge today will ensure that our past is preserved, protected, and made available for Yukoners and visitors to enjoy well into the future," Taylor added.
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| Contact: | |
| Peter Carr | Karen Tremblay |
| Cabinet Communication Advisor | A/Communications Officer |
| Cabinet Office | Tourism and Culture |
| (867) 667-8688 | (867) 667-8304 |
| peter.carr@gov.yk.ca | karen.tremblay@gov.yk.ca |