Parks Canada: Blanc-Sablon-Rich Trove of Aboriginal History

The Government of Canada Commemorates the National Historic Significance of Blanc-Sablon

BLANC-SABLON, QUEBEC – Sept. 23, 2009 – On behalf of the Honourable Jim Prentice, Canada’s Environment Minister and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, Mr. Jacques Gourde, Member of Parliament for Lotbiniere-Chutes-de-la-Chaudiere, today unveiled a plaque commemorating the national historic significance of Blanc-Sablon due to its rich archaeological heritage.”I am proud to take part in commemorating Blanc-Sablon. This site, thousands of years old, testifies to the evolution of Aboriginal communities on the Quebec-Labrador Peninsula,” said Mr. Gourde. “I am honoured to be underlining its national historic significance.”

For nearly nine thousand years, Aboriginal peoples have been drawn to Blanc-Sablon’s abundant shoreline resources. Research conducted on more than sixty archaeological sites along the western bank of the Blanc-Sablon River reveals settlement and subsistence patterns that gradually changed over time. The quantity and diversity of the wildlife remains found here testify to the importance of coastal resources, particularly seals, to the diet of the area’s inhabitants.

“The commemoration of First Nations history is a priority for our government. Blanc-Sablon now joins the family of persons, places and events relating to Aboriginal history and recognized for their national historic significance. Together, they form an important part of Canada’s cultural mosaic,” said Minister Prentice.

Parks Canada manages a nation-wide network of national historic sites that commemorate persons, places and events that have shaped Canada’s history and which offer visitors the opportunity for real and inspiring discovery. Parks Canada works to ensure that Canada’s historic and natural heritage is presented and protected for the enjoyment, education, appreciation and inspired discovery of all Canadians, today and in the future.

Also posted on the Internet at www.pc.gc.ca in the Media Room.

For more information, please contact
Parks Canada – Quebec
Melissa Larose
Communications Advisor
418-648-4533

Backgrounder Blanc-Sablon