First commoner to become Governor General of Canada is recognized
Ottawa, Ontario, July 19, 2010--The Honourable Jim Prentice, Minister of the Environment and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, today recognized the national historic significance of Sir John Buchan, 1st Baron Tweedsmuir of Elsfield, who promoted Canadian culture through his numerous achievements.
"Sir John Buchan promoted a sense of Canadian pride, raised awareness of the Arctic and promoted Canada's geographical and ethnocultural diversity," said Minister Prentice. "I am truly pleased that Sir John Buchan has been designated as a person of national historic significance."
A famous international author and Scottish politician, John Buchan was the first commoner to become Governor General of Canada. Buchan took his role as Governor General very seriously and his passion for Canada and its people was evident. In 1937 he traveled from the Atlantic to the Pacific and, for the first time ever for a Governor General, visited the Arctic region and its people. Through this official tour he instilled a sense of Canadian pride and promoted the country's distinct Canadian identity.
He also intervened on the country's behalf in the negotiations of the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan during the Second World War and by taking strong measures to create an intermediary role for Canada on the international scene, ensuring stable Anglo-American friendship and cooperation.
Encouraged by his wife, Lady Tweedsmuir, he contributed to the creation of the Governor General's Literary Awards, which still today honors Canadian authors.
"Through his work, Sir John Buchan inspired Canadians and made them appreciate the cultural richness of our country," said Minister Prentice. "With today's commemoration, we take another step in bringing the national historic significance of Sir John Buchan to all Canadians."
Created in 1919, the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada advises the Minister of the Environment regarding the national historic significance of places, people and events that have marked Canada's history. Parks Canada manages a nation-wide network of national historic sites that make up the rich tapestry of Canada's cultural heritage and which offers visitors the opportunity for real and inspiring discoveries.
For additional information, please see the accompanying backgrounder at www.parkscanada.gc.ca under Media Room.
Information:
Media Relations
Parks Canada
819-994-3023
http://twitter.com/parkscanada
Backgrounder associated with this News Release.
Sir John Buchan, 1st Baron Tweedsmuir of Elsfield (1875-1940)
