A Queen and Her Country: The Canadian Museum of Civilization commemorates Her Majesty’s Diamond Jubilee

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For immediate release

Gatineau (Quebec), June 1, 2012—A captivating and uniquely Canadian exhibition commemorating the Diamond Jubilee of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II opens July 1, 2012 at the Canadian Museum of Civilization. A Queen and Her Country recalls Her Majesty’s first 60 years as Canada’s Head of State, her many royal visits to this country and her personal connection to major events in our recent history.  

The exhibition invites visitors to reflect on the Queen’s remarkable journey from young princess to long-serving monarch. It also illuminatesCanada’s development as a modern, diverse country with enduring ties to its British heritage and traditions. The exhibition features about 60 artifacts and a rich assortment of historical images gathered from across the country.

“AsCanada’s national museum of human history, we are proud to present this unique, pan-Canadian perspective on Her Majesty’s 60-year reign,” said Mark O’Neill, President and CEO of theCanadianMuseumof Civilization Corporation. “The opening date—Canada Day—underscores her constitutional role as Queen of Canada and her deep affection for this country and its people.”

The exhibition’s most striking artifact is the Maple Leaf of Canada Dress, a gown Her Majesty wore at a state banquet inOttawain October 1957. It is adorned with a beautiful garland of maple leaves and white roses, and glitters with crystals and imitation gems.

A Queen and Her Country is presented at the Canadian Museum of Civilization from July 1, 2012 to January 6, 2013.

A version of the exhibition will be available to other Canadian venues through the Travelling Exhibitions Service of theCanadianMuseumof Civilization Corporation.

The Canadian Museum of Civilization is the centre for research and public information on the social and human history of the country. Located on the shores of the Ottawa River in Gatineau, Quebec, the Museum is Canada’s largest and most popular cultural institution, attracting over 1.2 million visitors each year. The Museum of Civilization’s principal role is to preserve and promote the heritage of Canada for present and future generations, thereby contributing to the promotion and enhancement of Canadian identity.

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