Midhurst/May 18, 2023 – Deputy Warden Jennifer Coughlin gathered with County staff to open a new outdoor pavilion at the Simcoe County Museum and celebrate International Museum Day. Since 1977, May 18 has been used as an opportunity to raise awareness of the important role that museums play in cultural exchange, enrichment of cultures and the development of mutual understanding, cooperation and peace among peoples.
The new pavilion, which is 1,500 square-feet in size, will be used to increase capacity for museum programming, including school programs and events, such as lectures, meetings, performances and day camps.
“Simcoe County Museum is a great way to educate residents and visitors about the history of Simcoe County,” said Warden Basil Clarke. “Thanks to the Government of Canada, the new pavilion will allow more people to take part in our events and programming. This additional space will help grow the museum and provide valuable, exciting and educational experiences for years to come.”
The County of Simcoe received a non-repayable contribution of over $285,000 from the Government of Canada through the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario), toward the construction of the pavilion and a fully accessible 1.1 kilometre trail through a section of restored habitat.
“Today on International Museum Day, we celebrate the many benefits that museums give to our communities. They provide enriching cultural and educational experiences that are rooted in our shared history. Investing in the construction of public spaces, like the new pavilion at Simcoe County Museum, is one example of how our government is building strong communities across Canada,” said Filomena Tassi, Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario.
When the pavilion is not in-use by museum staff, members of the public will have the opportunity to rent the space for private functions, such as weddings, starting this summer. For more information on the new pavilion, including how to make a reservation, visit museum.simcoe.ca. Work continues on the accessible trail.
About Simcoe County Museum
Take the Infinite Journey with the Simcoe County Museum, a cultural exploration of our historical past and exciting future. The Simcoe County Museum is owned and operated by the County of Simcoe and offers year-round exhibits, events and educational programs for visitors of every age. Visit our website at museum.simcoe.ca for further details.
About County of Simcoe
The County of Simcoe is composed of sixteen member municipalities and provides crucial public services to County residents in addition to providing paramedic and social services to the separated cities of Barrie and Orillia. Visit our website at simcoe.ca.
About FedDev Ontario
For 13 years, the Government of Canada, through FedDev Ontario, has worked to advance and diversify the southern Ontario economy through funding opportunities and business services that support innovation, growth and job creation in Canada’s most populous region. The Agency has delivered impressive results, which can be seen in southern Ontario businesses that are creating innovative technologies, improving productivity, growing revenues, creating jobs, and in the economic advancement of communities across the region. Learn more about the impacts the Agency is having in southern Ontario by exploring our pivotal projects, our Southern Ontario Spotlight, and FedDev Ontario’s Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.
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CONTACTS
Collin Matanowitsch
Manager, Public Relations
County of Simcoe, Service Simcoe Department
705-734-8386 (mobile)
Collin.Matanowitsch@simcoe.ca
Edward Hutchinson
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario
Edward.Hutchinson@feddevontario.gc.ca