Newfoundland's Entry into Confederation National Historic Event
St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador
Detailed view of the HSMBC plaque
© Parks Canada / Parcs Canada, 1989
Address :
Prince Philip Drive and Higgins Line, St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador
Recognition Statute:
Historic Sites and Monuments Act (R.S.C., 1985, c. H-4)
Designation Date:
1958-05-27
Other Name(s):
-
Newfoundland's Entry into Confederation
(Designation Name)
Importance:
Led by Joseph R. Smallwood, Newfoundland became 10th province in 1949
Plaque(s)
Existing plaque: Confederation Building Prince Philip Drive and Higgins Line, St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador
Newfoundland entered Confederation on 31 March 1949. Though Europeans were active here from the early 16th century, recognition as a colony did not come until 1824. Self-government and Dominion status followed but these were placed in abeyance in 1933 when Government by Commission was instituted. In 1948 a national convention proposed a return to Responsible Government but a spirited campaign led by J.R. Smallwood convinced a small majority to accept union with Canada which 19th century voters had decisively rejected. Sir Albert Walsh was the first Lieutenant-Governor and Smallwood the First Premier.