Canada’s New Government Recognizes Shawnadithit As A Person Of National Historic Significance
ST. JOHN’S, NEWFOUNDLAND AND LABRADOR, July 12, 2007–On behalf of the Honourable John Baird, Minister of the Environment and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, the Honourable Loyola Hearn, Minister of Fisheries and Ocean, today announced the unveiling of a Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada plaque commemorating Shawnadithit (circa 1801-1829), the last known Beothuk and the contribution she made in preserving the history of her people. A ceremony marking the importance of Shawnadithit’s life and her impact on the history of Canada was held today in St. John’s.“Seized by English settlers in 1823, Shawnadithit was the last of the Beothuk to be known and has become synonymous with the extinction of the Beothuk,” said Minister Hearn. “The things we learned from Shawnadithit continue to shape our understanding of the Beothuk culture that once thrived in Newfoundland. The Government of Canada recognizes the importance of preserving her historic legacy.”
Shawnadithit taught her captors much of what is now known about the Beothuk and their plight. She also provided her captors with extensive knowledge of Beothuk language, customs, and recent history, as well as an important visual record, for she was a skilled artist. Shawnadithit never regained her freedom and on June 6, 1829, the last known Beothuk died.
Parks Canada manages a vast network of national parks and historic sites in Newfoundland and Labrador, which offer visitors high-quality services and outstanding heritage experiences.
Created in 1919, the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada advises the Minister of the Environment about the national historic significance of places, persons and events that have marked Canada’s history. The placement of a commemorative plaque represents an official recognition of their historic value. It is one means of educating the public about the richness of our cultural heritage, which must be preserved for present and future generations.
Information:
David H. Taylor
Manager of Marketing and Communications
Newfoundland East Field Unit
Parks Canada Agency
709 772-0285
Backgrounder associated with this News Release. SHAWNADITHIT (Circa 1801-1829)
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