Bluenose and Beyond: A new virtual exhibition by the Canadian Museum of History 

PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT 

Gatineau, Quebec, October 21, 2020 — The Canadian Museum of History marks the 100th anniversary of the iconic Canadian schooner Bluenose and its first victory at the International Fishermen’s Trophy Race by launching a virtual exhibition about its designer, William James Roué (1879–1970).  

The W. J. Roué Collection – Bluenose and Beyond highlights a collection that was donated by the family to the Museum in 2015, and that helps tell the story of Canada’s best-known naval architect. Exploring a career that would span some 50 years, the online exhibition features objects, blueprints, drawings, photographs and more, all celebrating the life of a true Canadian innovator. The exhibition also offers a behind-the-scenes look at the care and conservation of the William James Roué Collection at the Museum. 

Roué created more than 200 designs and his career is intimately linked to the history of wooden ship and boat building in Canada during the 20th century. His designs ranged from small pleasure craft to larger racing sailboats. He also designed more utilitarian vessels, such as ferries and fishing boats, but it is mainly as the designer of the Bluenose — Canada’s most beloved schooner and his most famous achievement — that he will be recognized. 

The launch of The W. J. Roué Collection – Bluenose and Beyond coincides with the 100th anniversary of the Bluenose’s historic racing victory on October 22, 1921. For 17 years, the schooner successfully defended the trophy, winning races along North America’s East Coast. Bluenose represented Canada at the 1933 Chicago World’s Fair, and at King George V’s Silver Jubilee in 1935. Since 1937, it has appeared on the Canadian dime, on stamps, and in many other places. 

This online exhibition complements a special display showcasing artifacts from the William James Roué Collection. Selected objects from the collection are also on display in the Canadian History Hall, connecting visitors to Roué and to the Bluenose’s place as a Canadian symbol of sporting pride. 

More information is available at historymuseum.ca or by calling 819-776-7000 or  1-800-555-5621. 

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