New study confirms Canadians’ commitment to preserving historic places
A new study reveals widespread support from Canadians for the preservation and celebration of the country’s many heritage places, historic sites and traditional neighbourhoods. The study, commissioned by the National Trust for Canada, finds that 90 per cent of Canadians feel it is important to preserve heritage sites and historic places. Support for preservation is powered by Canadians’ esteem for the role these places have in telling the story of our country’s people and its unique history, with 64 per cent believing that heritage sites help present our country’s collective narrative.
Conducted by Environics, the study also shows that many Canadians are aware of and support the benefits of preserving heritage sites. Three in five Canadians believe historic places are important for tourism and 52 per cent are interested in visiting a heritage site as a way to get involved in preservation, while 43 per cent believe preservation is important because many of these sites could be lost.
An excellent way for Canadians to experience the country’s rich history this summer is by participating in Canada Historic Places Day, which launches on July 4 and continues through August 2020.
Now in its fourth year, Canada Historic Places Day is a nation-wide celebration coordinated across hundreds of heritage sites hosted by the National Trust for Canada with support from Parks Canada. Recognizing that this year will be different, Canadians coast-tocoast are encouraged to engage with and support local historic places and learn about Canada’s history and culture – virtually or physically, depending on each region’s social distancing guidelines.
“This recent study tells us that Canadians see their local historic places as badges of pride that reflect our nation’s diverse history and culture,” says Natalie Bull, executive director at the National Trust for Canada. “Recognizing heritage places as touchstones with Canada’s heritage, its people, and our shared story are compelling reasons to make sure these sites survive for future generations.”
The environmental merits of preservation also resonate strongly with Canadians, with 86 per cent agreeing that preserving heritage sites is more environmentally friendly than building new structures. This is especially true for older Canadians, with 96 per cent of Canadians older than 70 years of age holding this view.
Regional Findings
- Canadians in the Prairies are the strongest supporters of traditional downtown districts that benefit small businesses, have a keener interest in learning more about industrial sites, and about the generations of people linked to a historic place
Engaging with Canadian Heritage
Across all generations, provinces and territories, Canadians are most interested in experiencing historic places first-hand. More than half (52 per cent) are interested in visiting a place as a way to get involved with preservation, while 36 per cent would show their support by going to a restaurant or shopping in a historic area.
To encourage Canadians to visit and support their local historic places this summer, the National Trust for Canada will be hosting a series of contests. The first is a digital selfie contest on social media, where one visitor and one participating historic site can each win $1,000. This contest launches on July 4 and will run until the end of the month.
The second is an Online Adventures contest that will launch on August 1, hosted by the National Trust for Canada. The month-long contest encourages Canadians to submit a story linking their favourite historic places for the chance to win $1,000. A prize pack worth $5,000 will also be awarded to one participating historic place.
For a map of participating historic sites, a schedule of activities taking place throughout the summer, and full contest rules, please visit www.historicplacesday. ca.