Government of Yukon
Government
FOR RELEASE #07-168
August 14, 2007
Future Use Of Yukon Saw Mill Company Office To Be Determined
WHITEHORSE - Tourism and Culture Minister Elaine Taylor announced today that the Yukon government is inviting suggestions from the community for the use of the Yukon Saw Mill Company Office building in Dawson City.
The Yukon Saw Mill Company Office was designated a Yukon Historic Site on August 23, 2005, and is protected under the Historic Resources Act. As part of its rehabilitation an addition has been constructed to allow for future access to the second floor as well as the installation of modern services.
"The building is to be rehabilitated to make it useful to the community," Taylor said. "Use and occupation of historic buildings contributes to their sustainability and long term survival through regular care and maintenance."
The Yukon Saw Mill Company Office was built in 1900 and is a two story wood frame building situated on the northeast corner lot at Duke Street and Front Street in Dawson City. The Yukon Saw Mill Company was one of the first sawmills to cut timber in the Klondike and was the most extensive and longest operating sawmill in Yukon during the early twentieth century. The existing building housed the machine shop, sales area and offices, with some materials storage. It is distinctive for the large lettering painted on its street facades.
The invitation to the public to provide suggestions will be supported by an advertising campaign starting August 15, 2007. The closing date for suggestions is September 30, 2007, at which time the proposals will be reviewed by an independent committee comprised of representatives from the Yukon Heritage Resources Board, City of Dawson, Dawson City Chamber of Commerce, Department of Tourism and Culture's senior management as well as the department's Historic Sites Branch. All ideas will be considered for the eventual use of this building.
"The involvement of the public, and Dawson residents in particular, is very important to this process," Taylor said. "By working with the community we hope to ensure the best use for this important heritage asset."
-30-
| Contact: Roxanne Vallevand Cabinet Communications 867-633-7949 roxanne.vallevand@gov.yk.ca |
Alicia Debreceni Communications, Tourism and Culture 867-667-8589 alicia.debreceni@gov.yk.ca |