25 – Million and counting

25-million and counting

Gatineau, Quebec, September 11, 2008 — Canada’s national museum of human history celebrated a historic moment of its own today when it welcomed its 25-millionth visitor. The milestone was reached just 19 years after the first visitor walked through the doors at the Canadian Museum of Civilization (CMC) on June 29, 1989.

In a light-hearted ceremony, surprised visitors — Christina and 2 year-old son Joshua Wolaniuk of Ottawa were greeted by three Greek figures, the living emblems of the Museum’s summer blockbuster exhibition, The Greeks.

In addition to securing a place in the Museum’s history, Christina and Joshua received a basket of gifts from the Museum boutique and a one-year family membership to both the Museum of Civilization and its sister institution, the Canadian War Museum.

“What a wonderful occasion to celebrate,” said Dr. Rabinovitch. “Today, we congratulate Christina and Joshua, but we also say thank you to the millions of others from across Canada and around the world, who, throughout the years, have made this the most-visited museum in the country.”

Recognized internationally as a center of research and museological excellence, the CMC has presented major research and exhibitions on Canada’s past and on the social and cultural communities of the country. It has also introduced visitors to many world cultures. In addition to permanent galleries showcase artifacts from its unrivalled collections. Over the past 19 years the CMC has presented more than 350 special exhibitions including powerful, eye-opening shows, such as Ancient Treasures and the Dead Sea Scrolls, POMPEII and Treasures from China.

Closer to home, Canadian stories such as Rocket Richard: The Legend – The Legacy, Acres of Dreams: Settling the Canadian Prairies, Emergence from the Shadow: First Peoples’ Photographic Perspective and Lace Up: Canada’s Passion for Skating continue to confirm the Museum’s reputation for the inspired interpretation of Canadian history.

Although the CMC can trace its origins back to 1856, it acquired its current name and address less than 20 years ago when it moved to the Quebec side of the Ottawa River, directly across from Parliament Hill. The museum buildings, designed by Aboriginal architect Douglas Cardinal, are among the most widely recognized icons of modern Canada.

The Canadian Museum of Civilization is also home to the Canadian Children’s Museum, the Canadian Postal Museum and an IMAX theatre. It has been a source of national pride and an unqualified success as a public institution, drawing an average of 1.3-million visitors a year from across Canada and around the globe.

Media Information:

Chief, Media Relations
Canadian Museum of Civilization
Tel.: 819 776-7167

Media Relations Officer
Canadian Museum of Civilization
Tel.: 819 776-7169

Fax: 819 776-7187