Klondike Gold Rush Anniversary

Prime Minister Jean Chrétien today recalled a colourful saga of the Canadian North and signed a proclamation urging all Canadians to celebrate the 100th Anniversary of the discovery that launched the Klondike Gold Rush.

"This discovery a hundred years ago represents a period of pioneering achievement and romance in the history of Canada," said the Prime Minister. "Today is the 98th anniversary of the Yukon as a territory and the ideal time to make this proclamation."

In August, 1896, prospectors "Skookum Jim", George Carmack and "Dawson (Tagish) Charlie" discovered gold in Bonanza Creek, sparking the Klondike Gold Rush of 1897-98 that drew fortune seekers from around the world to the remote, northern mass of Canada. Their adventures captured the world's imagination. The discovery also changed the lives and cultures of First Nations peoples. They participated in the Gold Rush and contributed to the development of the Yukon.

The Gold Rush produced great feats in transportation, communications, mining technology and other fields in a challenging environment and within a very short period. The lure and lore of the Klondike grew as its colourful characters, saloons, hotels, theatres and dancehalls were immortalized by a league of writers, notably Robert Service. This stimulated the tourism industry, and worldwide fascination with the Canadian North.

The Prime Minister's proclamation, and the anniversary celebrations, will enable Canadians, and visitors from around the world, to leaf through a page in Canada's history and get the feeling of how tough pioneers battled the elements and helped this country to become what it is today.

PMO Press Office: (613) 957-5555


Return to regular web page:
http://www.pco-bcp.gc.ca/default.asp?Language=E&Page=archivechretien&Sub=NewsReleases&Doc=news_re19960613211_e.htm