Harper Government Designates Two Celebrated B.C. Aboriginal Leaders as Persons of National Historic Significance
“The national significance of Jean-Baptiste Lolo is being recognized for future generations because of his important contribution to the development of the fur trade in the Canadian West in the early 19thcentury,” said Ms. McLeod. “Andrew Paull was instrumental in advancing Aboriginal rights in Canada. Both these individuals are worthy additions to British Columbia’s list of nationally significant people.”
Jean-Baptiste Lolo (1798-1868) was a Hudson’s Bay Company trader and guide from B.C’s interior. This region of British Columbia was not a preferred area of work among Hudson’s Bay Company’s employees and desertions were common. Jean-Baptiste Lolo’s contributions were doubly valued as he alsogranted his extensive property to the Kamloops Reserve after his death, which helped support Aboriginal people adapt to farming and other business ventures.
A century later, Andrew Paull (1892-1959) was a Squamish leader who dedicated most of his life to protecting and advancing his people’s interest. Through his ground-breaking efforts, he laid the foundation for the successes of subsequent Aboriginal rights organizations by convincing governments to consult with such organizations on matters directly affecting the lives of Aboriginal people.
“The national historic designation of Andrew Paull and Jean-Baptiste Lolo will give future generations of Canadians a better understanding of the varied and complex stories of Canada’s first peoples,” said Minister Kent.
The new designations will be included in Canada’s system of national historic sites, persons and events, on the recommendation of the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada.
The Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada was established in 1919 and is supported by Parks Canada. It advises the Minister of the Environment regarding the national significance of places, persons and events that have marked Canada’s history. On behalf of the people of Canada, Parks Canada manages a nationwide network that makes up a rich tapestry of Canada’s historical heritage and offers the public opportunities for real and inspiring discoveries.
For additional information, please see the accompanying backgrounder at www.parkscanada.gc.ca under Media Room.
Adam Sweet
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of the Environment
819-997-1441
Media Relations
Parks Canada
819-953-8371
www.twitter.com/parkscanada
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