National Historic Designations

What is a national designation?

The Reverend Josiah Henson (1789-1883)Designated of national significance
© Parks Canada

National Historic Sites, Persons and Events are designated by the Minister of the Environment. These designations celebrate and help preserve the great diversity of Canada’s history. In a fast-changing world, they link us to our past, enhance our understanding of the present and show us the great possibilities for the future. They help to form common bonds among us and bring our national story to life so that it may be told for generations to come.

To date, over 930 sites, 600 persons and 380 events have been designated.

To learn how Sites, Persons or Events are designated, visit: http://www.pc.gc.ca/clmhc-hsmbc/index_e.asp

To learn how the system of national designations is organized, visit: http://www.pc.gc.ca/docs/r/system-reseau/sites-lieux1_e.asp

To learn how you can participate:

St. Catharines British Methodist Episcopal Church (Salem Chapel) (1851-55), St. Catharines, Ontario – Designated a National Historic Site of Canada
© Parks Canada

Is there a site, a person or an event connected to your Canadian experience – a piece of the Canadian mosaic – that relates to the underrepresented areas of our history?

Is the subject an important part of our Canadian experience and does it speak to all Canadians?

Does it contribute to our knowledge of our history and our understanding of the country?

Help us tell the whole Canadian story!

If you have an idea or would like more information on the system of National Historic Sites of Canada, please contact:

The Executive Secretary
Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada
25 Eddy Street
5th floor
Gatineau Quebec
Canada K1A 0M5
Email. hsmbc-clmhc@pc.gc.ca
www.pc.gc.ca/clmhc-hsmbc/index_e.asp