Canadian Museum of History is official

GATINEAU, QC, Dec. 13, 2013 /CNW/ - Canada's national museum of human history welcomes a new era in its own long and storied history following yesterday's enactment of federal legislation transforming the Canadian Museum of Civilization into the Canadian Museum of History.

Under its revised mandate, the Museum will tell the story of Canada and its people more comprehensively, inclusively and candidly than ever before. It will do so by focusing greater attention on the people, events and experiences that have shaped our country's development, define the Canadian experience and underpin our national identity. The Museum will also continue to present special exhibitions exploring world history and cultures, and permanent exhibitions illuminating the historical achievements and continuing contributions of Canada's First Peoples.

"We welcome our new name and mandate with pride and enthusiasm," said Mark O'Neill, President and CEO of the Canadian Museum of History. "We begin this new chapter with the rich inheritance of the important work of our predecessors; iconic buildings, outstanding staff, world-class research and unrivalled artifact collections. The Museum looks forward to broadening its focus on Canadian historical themes and telling this country's remarkable story to audiences throughout Canada and around the world."

"Working together, the Canadian Museum of History and the Canadian War Museum will preserve and present the full sweep of Canada's history in all its dimensions," said Bill Leach, Chair of the Board of Trustees of the Canadian Museum of History, which includes both institutions. "This is a vision long held by the Board, and we applaud Parliament for making its achievement possible."

The Museum's signature gallery will be the Canada History Hall. Now under development, it will be the largest, most comprehensive and engaging exhibition on Canadian history ever produced. It is scheduled to open in 2017 as Canadians celebrate the 150th anniversary of Confederation.

The Canadian Museum of History has roots stretching back to 1856 when the Province of Canada founded its first museum. The institution has evolved continually since then, changing its name, location and focus in keeping with changing resources, museological interests and public priorities.

The changes to the visual identity of the Museum will be implemented over the coming months.

SOURCE: Canadian Museum of Civilization