Discovery Harbour unveils two feature exhibits

Media Release - for immediate release

 

Visitors to Discovery Harbour in Penetanguishene, Ontario will be treated to two new feature exhibits this season, reflecting Naval highlights of the War of 1812, and showcasing the Temperance movement in Canada from 1827 to 1930.

Consisting of close to 40 pieces, the stunning “War on the Lakes” art exhibit largely features the superb artwork of Canadian marine artist Peter Rindlisbacher. 

Karin Taylor, Curator at Huronia Historical Parks, displays some artwork from Discovery Harbour's new "War on the Lakes" War of 1812 Bicentennial exhibit.  The collection consists of close to 40 reproductions of marine art paintings with accompanying historical text.  The exhibit is included as part of regular site admission.

 A richly-coloured reproduction collection of his original paintings, complete with historical text, gives visitors a tremendous survey of key Naval aspects of the War of 1812.  Themes include the siege of the Nancy (near present day Wasaga Beach), the history of the General Hunter, the story of the massive ship St. Lawrence, and background regarding many other vessels relating to the War of 1812.

 The beautiful exhibit is part of the Bi-National 1812 Art Collection coordinated by Canadian Art Cards, originally selected from over 300 art submissions when the exhibit was initially developed.

In Canada, the pre-cursor to Prohibition was the Temperance movement.  It was thought by many that alcohol encouraged poverty, hindered family life, and reduced productivity.  As the Temperance movement developed, some began pushing for complete abstinence from alcohol.  This eventually resulted in 11 years of Prohibition in Ontario.

American president Herbert Hoover called prohibition “The Noble Experiment”, since to him “noble” reflected the goal of keeping families together, and “experiment” because many observers felt it was an experiment that ultimately failed.  “The Noble Experiment – Temperance and Prohibition” traces the fascinating history of this movement – including the humour, crime, smuggling, and morality, that accompanied this little known piece of our history.  Discovery Harbour will also include an integrated exhibit on the use of rum and grog rations in the British Navy.

           

The “War on the Lakes” art exhibit at Discovery Harbour runs Tuesday to Saturday to June 30, and seven days a week July 1 to September 2.  “The Noble Experiment – Temperance and Prohibition” exhibit will be offered seven days a week from July 14 through to August 22.   Both exhibits are included with regular site admission.  For further information call (705) 549-8064 or visit www.hhp.on.ca

-30-

Discovery Harbour is operated by Huronia Historical Parks,

and is an attraction of the Ontario Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Sport.