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Canadian Government Information on the Internet (CGII)
by Anita Cannon, the Depository Services Program and Contributors
Federal Information -- Table of Contents
History and archaeology -- Federal Information
A History of the Native People of Canada
This study is a history of the Native peoples based entirely upon archaeological evidence. Covering almost 12,000 years, from
10,000 B.C. to 500 A.D., the study examines archaeological remains such as broken stone tools, discarded food bones, and the vague
traces of dwellings to provide information on the history of the Native peoples prior to Canada's colonization by Europeans. The
study includes texts and pictures in HTML format. Visitors can go directly to a specific historical period or page through the
entire study chronologically.
(2002-02-02, Terrell Les Strange, BC Ferry Corporation Library
lesstrange@telus.net)
Site available in English.
http://www.civilization.ca/archeo/hnpc/npint00e.html
Archaeological Survey of Canada
The Archaeological Survey of Canada (ASC) is the archaeology division of the Canadian Museum of Civilization. The mandate of the
ASC is to conduct research on the archaeology of the Native peoples or First Nations of Canada from the earliest beginnings to the
period of European settlement. To a lesser degree, they also study the archaeology of the European settlement itself. This section
of the larger Canadian Museum of Civilization Web site gives basic information about the role and activities of the ASC, a brief
history of the ASC, information on ASC researchers and their projects, information on ASC publications and links to electronic
publications. Virtual exhibits highlight artifacts from the archaeological collections of the Canadian Museum of Civilization. Also
accessible via the site is the Canadian Archaeological Radiocarbon Database -- a searchable database of radiocarbon measurements
that indicate the ages of archaeological and palaeontological sites in North America.
(2001-08, Terrell Les Strange, BC Ferry Corporation Library
lesstrange@telus.net)
Site available in English and French.
http://www.civilization.ca/cmc/archeo/ehome.htm
Archaeology at Parks Canada
This site offers basic information about the field of archaeology and more specific information about Parks Canada's role in
managing archaeological resources. Information on some of Canada's archaeological sites is also given. Basic information such as a
description of the field of archaeology can be found in the "Basic Questions" section. Brief definitions of archaeological terms
such as "artifact" and "dig" are given in a glossary. The "Researchers and Projects" section provides information on the different
federal government organizations that employ archaeologists and the types of projects that they undertake. The "Let's Get Going" and
"Links within Parks Canada" sections give information on Canadian National Historic Sites, National Parks and National Marine
Conservation Areas containing archaeological information. A picture gallery of archaeological sites and a lengthy section on marine
archaeology are also featured.
(2001-08-14, Terrell Les Strange, BC Ferry Corporation Library
lesstrange@telus.net)
Site available in English and French.
http://www.parkscanada.gc.ca/progs/pfa-fap/index_e.asp
Artefacts Canada
Artefacts Canada, previously known as the National Inventories, is a database of millions of object records based on the
collections information provided by contributing museums and heritage organizations across Canada. The site is divided into three
sections - Humanities, Natural Sciences, and Archaeological Sites - and includes Canadian treasures from disciplines such as
archaeology, decorative arts, fine arts, ethnology, and history. A user-friendly search engine allows visitors to conduct
self-directed keyword searches or guided searches using subject headings. Detailed search results are organized by the concepts
what, where, who, when and how. Each section is searched separately and includes a Data Dictionary that defines the categories of
information in the database.
(2000-08-10, Terrell Les Strange, BC Ferry Corporation Library
lesstrange@telus.net)
Site available in English and French.
http://www.chin.gc.ca/English/Artefacts_Canada/index.html
Canada Agriculture Museum
The Agriculture Museum is located on the Central Experimental Farm grounds in Ottawa, so it is known as "The Farm in the City".
The Web site provides general information for the public about this "working farm...where you can explore the sights and sounds of
traditional farm life". "Visitor Information" tells about the farm's location and seasonal hours, admission fees, and telephone
numbers. "What's On" has a complete calendar of events for the current year. "Educational Programs" gathers all information relating
to school visits. "Animal Names" is a place to submit names for calves, foals, kids or lambs newly born on the farm. The "Virtual
Bread Cookbook" offers the chance to submit a bread memory and/or recipe, with the promise that the cookbook will eventually appear
on the Web site.
(2000-06, Mary Luebbe, University of British Columbia
mluebbe@unixg.ubc.ca)
Site available in English and French.
http://www.agriculture.technomuses.ca/english/index.cfm
Canada Aviation Museum
Featuring detailed descriptions and images of the National Aviation Museum's 120 aircraft and a collection of 8,500 archival
photographs, this Ottawa museum's Web site gathers together a wealth of information on Canada's aviation history. In addition to
detailed information about the collection, exhibit and program information is prominently featured. The Exhibits section gives
information about permanent, temporary and special exhibits. The Programs section provides information about individual programs and
allows schools and groups the ability to reserve on line. A photo essay collection in .pdf format offers in-depth aviation
information and a glimpse at rarely seen photographs. The site also features visitor and employment information, regularly updated
news, and a link to "Flightdeck", a multimedia-enhanced aviation Web site developed in partnership by exn.ca, Discovery Channel
Canada and the Museum. The site also gives general information about the Canadian Aviation Museum Library.
(2000-06-09, Terrell Les Strange, BC Ferry Corporation Library
lesstrange@telus.net)
Site available in English and French.
http://www.aviation.technomuses.ca/Eng/english_home.html
Canada Heirloom Series
Mandate of the Canada Heirloom series is to "to popularize Canada's rich culture, history and heritage." This Digital Collection
project provides access to digitized versions of all 7 volumes of the series. Volume 1, Canada from Sea unto Sea, is a portfolio of
illustrations, photographs and articles about Canada. Volume 2, Canada's Native Peoples, is an introduction to the heritage and
history of first nations cultures in Canada. Volume 3, Allegiance the Ontario story, gives a history of Ontario's first 200 years.
Volumes 4, 5, and 6 each spotlight 125 vignettes of achievement by Canadians. Volume 7, Canada at the Millennium: A TransCultural
Society, provides brief information on the peoples of 50 nations who have chosen to make Canada their home. The text of this volume
consists of general information on the history of 50 nationalities in Canada and detailed biographies of numerous individuals who
chose to settle in Canada. The site is mostly English, volume 7 is available in English and French.
(2000-07-17, Terrell Les Strange, BC Ferry Corporation Library
lesstrange@telus.net)
Site available in English.
http://collections.ic.gc.ca/heirloom_series/
Canada Science and Technology Museum
The mandate of the national Canada Science and Technology Museum is to help the public understand the ongoing relationships
between science, technology and Canadian society. The museum's collection consists of 75,000 individual pieces, including artifacts,
photographs, technical drawings, trade literature, and rare books. The "Collection" section of the museum's Web site outlines
collection content and provides digital images and background information on selected collection items. The "What's On" section
includes calendars and information on long term, travelling and temporary exhibits and events. The "School Zone" gives information
about the museum's school programs. The site also includes a visitor's information section, information about the museum's
departments and activities, and an online catalogue allowing visitors to shop online from the museum's boutique.
(2000-07-06, Terrell Les Strange, BC Ferry Corporation Library
lesstrange@telus.net)
Site available in English and French.
http://www.sciencetech.technomuses.ca/english/index.cfm
Canada's Digital Collections
The federal government's Canada Digital Collection (CDC) program was introduced in 1995 to give young people entrepreneurial and
technology-based experience, while adding Canadian content to the information highway. The resulting CDC Web site is one of the
largest sources of Canadian content, including historical information, on the Internet. As of June 12, 2000 the History section of
the site provided links to over 90 history-related CDC projects covering federal and provincial topics. The History section is
divided into 3 main subject areas: Canada at War; Canadian History; and Places in Canada and Local History. The Canada at War
section contains links to projects such as The Canadian Virtual War Memorial and the Whole Kit and Kaboodle: Canadian Military
Uniforms. The Canadian History section links visitors to digital collections such as Canada's Flag, Canada's Prime Ministers, and
Canadian Portraits. The Places in Canada and Local History section brings together digital projects such as Building Canada, a
collection of slides of buildings from across Canada, and Heroes of Yore and Lore: Canadian Heroes from Fact and Fiction. Sites
contain discussions and background information to the digital images. New sites are added regularly, with 14 history-related sites
added the month prior to this review.
(2000-06-13, Terrell Les Strange, BC Ferry Corporation Library
lesstrange@telus.net)
Site available in English and French.
http://collections.ic.gc.ca/E/index.php
Canada's Flag
A digitized version of John Ross Matheson's 1975 study of the history and symbolism of the Canadian flag and first-hand account
of the flag debates of the sixties. Matheson, a Member of Parliament and avid heraldry buff, was assigned the task of researching
possible Canadian flag designs by Prime Minister Lester Pearson when the Liberals came into power in 1963. When the Government
introduced a resolution to Parliament for establishment of a national flag in May 1964, a fierce battle ensued between the
Government and official opposition. The battle killed the first proposed flag, but led to the proclamation of today's Canadian
National Flag (colloquially known as the Maple Leaf Flag). Matheson's thesis, written ten years after the proclamation of Canada's
national flag, is an "account of Canada's flag by an active participant in the battle for a Canadian flag". This thesis, besides
providing background information respecting Canada's flag, interposes Matheson's own interpretation of the "great flag debate" and
the decisions of the men involved.
(2000-07-26, Terrell Les Strange, BC Ferry Corporation Library
lesstrange@telus.net)
Site available in English.
http://collections.ic.gc.ca/flag/
Canadian Canoe Museum
Housing the largest collection of canoes and kayaks in the world, the Canadian Canoe Museum's goal is to develop exhibits and
programs promoting the canoe as a national symbol. As of April 2002 the Canoe Museum's Web site was in the process of being
redesigned. The old site featured information on the museum's operation, collection and exhibits, quick facts, milestones and a
picture gallery. Other sections include event, course, and membership information, and links to related resources.
(2002-05-05, Terrell Les Strange, BC Ferry Corporation Library
lesstrange@telus.net)
Site available in English.
http://www.canoemuseum.net/default.asp
Canadian Confederation
The National Library of Canada's Canadian Confederation Web site tells the story of how Canada came to be, from the original
four provinces in 1867 to the present. Historical essays showcase documents, articles and photographs of the people, places and
events that have shaped Canada. The site features material from the collection of the National Library, including a number of rare
items that would otherwise be difficult to access. The Documents and Images sections lists all items digitized for the site. The
Documents section is organized by province/territory. The Images section is organized into General, Province/Territory and People
sub-sections and includes thumbnail images (photographs, caricatures, etc.) and descriptive captions. Since documents digitized for
this site are presented in their original language, not all documents are bilingual. The site is intended for the general public,
but the National Library also has a Confederation site designed for children ages 9 to 13 -- Confederation for Kids. There is a link
to the Confederation for Kids site on the main page.
(2002-12-02, Terrell Les Strange, BC Ferry Corporation Library
lesstrange@telus.net)
Site available in English and French.
http://www.nlc-bnc.ca/2/18/index-e.html
Canadian Conservation Institute (CCI)
A Special Operating Agency of the Department of Canadian Heritage, the CCI is dedicated to cultural heritage preservation and
improved conservation techniques. The site highlights its work and the services it offers worldwide, such as conservation and
restoration treatments, preventive conservation, scientific and analytic work, and training programs. The CCI regularly announces
upcoming conservation workshops and seminars on the site. A special new feature deals with the care and handling of old time
capsules and the construction of secure new ones. The "links of interest" section leads to international sources on conservation and
museology, health and safety, art and architecture, and electronic journals. CCI's online publications include recent annual reports
and some current issues of the CCI Newsletter. Other publications are listed in great detail and may be purchased from the web
pages, by e-mail, by telephone, or by regular mail.
(1999-09, Mary Luebbe, University of British Columbia
mluebbe@unixg.ubc.ca)
Site available in English and French.
http://www.cci-icc.gc.ca/main_e.shtml
Canadian Encyclopedia
First prepared at the University of Alberta, the Encyclopedia of Canada has been a reliable source of Canadian information for
twenty years. In 2000, the publishers donated the encyclopedia to the Historica Foundation -- a charitable foundation dedicated to
increasing awareness and understanding of Canadian history and its importance in shaping the future. In 2001, Historica launched a
bilingual, accessible, online edition of the encyclopedia. The Canadian Encyclopedia online allows for dynamic, interactive learning
through quizzes, interactivities, themes and games. A powerful search engine and detailed subject tree provide quick access to
thousands of articles on Canadian biographies and places, history, the Arts, as well as First Nations, science and Canadian
innovation. The site also offers students guides that can be used in conjunction with the encyclopedia.
(2001-10-27, Terrell Les Strange, BC Ferry Corporation Library
lesstrange@telus.net)
Site available in English and French.
http://thecanadianencyclopedia.com/index.cfm?TCE_Version=A
Canadian Heritage
Canadian Heritage is a multifaceted portfolio of federal institutions created in June 1993 to "consolidate national policies and
programs that maintain Canada's cultural sovereignty and promote Canadian identity". The Canadian Heritage web site provides
information and links to the Department of Canadian Heritage, the five departmental agencies, and the nine crown corporations that
form the portfolio. The department is responsible for programs and activities within five sectors: Canadian identity, cultural
development, arts and heritage, strategic management, and corporate services. Information on programs and policies within each
sector and links to Canadian Heritage web sites of agencies and crown corporations, such as the Film Board of Canada, the National
Library of Canada, and the Canada Council, are provided. The site also includes publications, news releases, information on the
Symbols of Canada, and more.
(2000-05-30, Terrell Les Strange, BC Ferry Corporation Library
lesstrange@telus.net)
Site available in English and French.
http://www.canadianheritage.gc.ca/index_e.cfm
Canadian Heritage Information Network (CHIN)
The mission of the Canadian Heritage Information Network (CHIN), a Special Operating Agency within the federal Department of
Canadian Heritage, is to broker access to Canadian and international heritage information for public education and enjoyment and for
the collective benefit of Canadian museums. CHIN describes its Web site as "an electronic gateway to the museum community in Canada
and beyond". The site features the "Great Canadian Guide", an introduction to museums across the country, and "Learning With
Museums", an online resource featuring lesson plans, virtual exhibitions, pre and post visit resources, event information and
hands-on educational activities. "Virtual Exhibitions" combine words, images and sounds in thematic exhibitions from around the
world. "Artefacts Canada" provides access to information on millions of museum objects, natural history specimens and archaeological
sites from across Canada. The "Research and Reference" section provides links to bibliographic, humanities and natural science
resources, intellectual property studies and data dictionaries. However, most databases are available by subscription only. A 30-day
free trial subscription was available as of May 2000. The interactive, searchable section "Heritage Forum" is described as "an
online journal where heritage professionals can pool their resources and ideas, and keep up to date on heritage information". The
site also gives links to CHIN publications, a staff directory, and online training.
(2000-05, Terrell Les Strange, BC Ferry Corporation Library
lesstrange@telus.net)
Site available in English and French.
http://www.chin.gc.ca/English/index.html
Canadian Heritage Rivers
Established in 1984, the Canadian Heritage Rivers System (CHRS) is a cooperative program, developed and run by the federal,
provincial and territorial governments. The objectives of the program are to give national recognition to Canada's outstanding
rivers and to ensure long-term management and conservation of their natural, cultural, historical, and recreational values. There
are currently 28 rivers with a total length of more than 6,000 km in the CHRS. Of these, 17 are designated (i.e. a management plan
has been accepted). This Parks Canada site gives an introduction to the CHRS program and full text of the federal government's CHRS
policy. A link to a site independently maintained by the Canadian Heritage Rivers System Secretariat is also included. The CHRS
Secretariat's site includes information about the CHRS and the rivers, publications, and links to related sites.
(2000-07-07, Terrell Les Strange, BC Ferry Corporation Library
lesstrange@telus.net)
Site available in English and French.
http://www.chrs.ca/Main_e.htm
Canadian Illustrated News: Images in the News 1869-1883
The Canadian Illustrated News site is a selection of almost 4,000 images of people, places and events across Canada and around
the world taken from Canada's first national magazine; the "Canadian Illustrated News," published in Montreal from 1869 to 1883. The
magazine described itself as a "weekly journal of Current Events, Literature, Science and Art, Agriculture and Mechanics, Fashion
and Amusement." Featuring poems and stories, a portrait gallery, and numerous pictures of the country's important commercial,
religious, government and educational buildings, the magazine was notable for its innovative use of half-tone photographs. In the
October 30, 1869 introductory issue, a half-tone reproduction was published for the very first time. Publishing over 15,000
half-tone photographs over the next 14 years, the magazine was the first in the world to produce photographs at a consistently
successful rate. The digitized images on this site have been taken from the National Library of Canada's complete holdings of the
"Canadian Illustrated News." Visitors to the site can browse through title, author, or subject indexes or search by date or key
words. Visitors may also browse through the complete first and last issues.
(2002-05-08, Terrell Les Strange, BC Ferry Corporation Library
lesstrange@telus.net)
Site available in English and French.
http://www.nlc-bnc.ca/cin/index-e.html
Canadian Institute for Historical Microreproductions (CIHM)
The CIHM national project was founded in 1978 to locate early printed Canadian materials (books, annuals, and periodicals), to
preserve their content on microfilm, and to make the resulting collections available to libraries and archives in Canada and abroad.
The Early Canadiana microform collection spans three and a half centuries of Canadian development, from first European contact to
the late 19th century, and contains more than sixty-five thousand titles. The collection is particularly strong in literature,
women's history, native studies, travel and exploration, and the history of French Canada. The CIHM Web site offers access to Early
Canadiana Online (ECO), a Web-based database of more than 3,000 books and pamphlets from the Early Canadiana microform collection.
The ECO is searchable by title, author, subject and key word. The site also features descriptions of other CIHM publications, new
projects at CIHM, and special reports prepared for the research community. Information on ordering ECO and other CIHM publications
is provided.
(2000-06-12, Terrell Les Strange, BC Ferry Corporation Library
lesstrange@telus.net)
Site available in English and French.
http://www.nlc-bnc.ca/cihm/
Canadian Museum of Civilization
The site presents comprehensive information about the Canadian Museum of Civilization, with features on the architecture and
institutional history of this celebrated museum, illustrated with drawings and floor plans. The Galleries link, found under the
"About the Museum" heading, takes visitors to a floor-by-floor introduction to the galleries, sometimes accompanied by essays on the
exhibits and installations. Numerous schedules list seasonal opening hours, films shown in the Cineplus Imax theatre, exhibits past,
present, and future, and public programs, facilities, and events. There are links to the Canadian Children's Museum and the Canadian
Postal Museum, both housed within the Canadian Museum of Civilization, and a link to Virtual Museum of New France. A section
entitled "Behind the Scenes" leads to short descriptions of the museum's research activities, its Aboriginal Training Program in
Museum Practices, evaluation and visitor studies, conservation and technical services, and the collections digitization project.
There is also a searchable staff directory, and advice on joining the museum as volunteer, member, or friend.
(2002-04-17, Mary Luebbe, University of British Columbia
mluebbe@unixg.ubc.ca)
Site available in English and French.
http://www.civilization.ca/cmc/cmce.asp
Canadian Museum of Nature
The Canadian Museum of Nature, Canada's national, natural history museum, launched its revamped Web site on May 10, 2000. The
site is intended to "expand the Museum's walls to offer all Canadians - via the net - one of the most authoritative and accessible
resources about nature in Canada". The site contains over 1,000 dynamic and colourful pages of information about the Museum's
mandate, structure, collection, services, etc. The Collections section of the site offers information on accessing the collection
through tours, behind-the-scenes visits, loans, and via a virtual collection of selected items from the museum's collection of 10
million natural history specimens. The Exhibits section provides information about special exhibits, galleries, outside exhibits,
museum tours, travelling exhibits, and the museum's virtual exhibit. A section for educators informs teachers, parents and the
general public about the Museum's educational programmes, workshops and activities and opportunities for informal learning. The site
also features corporate information, publications, and visitor's information.
(2000-06-09, Terrell Les Strange, BC Ferry Corporation Library
lesstrange@telus.net)
Site available in English and French.
http://www.nature.ca/nature_e.cfm
Canadian Studies Program
The Canadian Studies Program was established by the Department of Canadian Heritage in 1984 with the mandate to encourage
Canadians to learn about Canada. The program funds programs that develop learning materials and ventures that promote Canadian
studies activities in Canada and abroad. The program also promotes knowledge about the field of Canadian studies by publishing
booklets and articles. The program's Web site offers an overview of the program and its components and online versions of some of
its publications. Featured on the site are a series of articles developed for young Canadians entitled "About Canada" and EduAction
resource guides. The "About Canada" articles examine unique Canadian topics and issues such as "Canada's Legal Tradition," "Canada's
Native People," and "Canada at the Movies." The EduAction Resource Guides were developed for teachers and are designed to enhance
the availability of contemporary learning materials about Canada. EduAction Resource Guides address topics such as "Professional
Development Opportunities for Teachers" and "Heritage Fairs." Information on the program's annual funding competition is also
provided.
(2000-07-10, Terrell Les Strange, BC Ferry Corporation Library
lesstrange@telus.net)
Site available in English and French.
http://www.pch.gc.ca/csp-pec/index_e.cfm
Canadian War Museum
An affiliated museum of the Canadian Museum of Civilization, the Canadian War Museum (CWM) is Canada's national military history
museum. This Ottawa museum describes itself as a "living memorial to those men and women who served in Canada's armed forces" and a
centre for research and dissemination of information and expertise on Canada's military past. The CWM Web site provides information
on the museum's history and mission, collections, programs and services, facilities, exhibitions, special events, etc. Highlights of
this site include an online gallery tour of the museum's permanent collections, a hall of honour "showcasing the valor and heroism"
of individuals throughout Canada's military history, and information and photographs from selected temporary exhibitions. The site
also provides access to a searchable database of the museum's war art collection.
(2000-06-05, Terrell Les Strange, BC Ferry Corporation Library
lesstrange@telus.net)
Site available in English and French.
http://www.civilisations.ca/cwm/cwme.asp
Federal Heritage Buildings
Since 1982, the Federal Heritage Buildings Review Office has designated about 1,100 federally owned buildings as "Federal
Heritage Buildings". The Federal Heritage Buildings Web site features an introduction to the federal government's policy on federal
heritage buildings, links to policy documents, and a listing of federal heritage buildings. As individual departments are
responsible for protecting the heritage character of the buildings they administer, the listing of buildings classified as federal
heritage buildings is arranged by government department names. The listing is further subdivided by province. Designated buildings
include the Parliament Buildings, military aircraft hangars, office buildings, customs houses, lighthouses, penitentiaries,
agricultural research facilities, and a number of National Historic Sites. Policy documents featured on the site are: the Federal
Heritage Buildings Review Office's Code of Practice; the Federal Heritage Buildings Policy; and the Cultural Resource Management
Policy.
(2000-07-07, Terrell Les Strange, BC Ferry Corporation Library
lesstrange@telus.net)
Site available in English and French.
http://www.canadascapital.gc.ca/corporate/parks_heritage/heritage/review_office_e.asp
First Among Equals: The Prime Minister in Canadian Life and Politics
A joint project of the National Library of Canada and National Archives of Canada, this site features a digitized version of the
National Archives' 1994 exhibition "First Among Equals." Drawing on a wide variety of documents and artifacts, this site examines
Canadian prime ministers'; political careers and private lives and the Canadian public's perception of the Prime Minister. Featured
are profiles and speeches of twenty prime ministers from Macdonald to Chrétien, and essays and documents relating to their rise,
leadership, and private life. The site is intended for a general audience, however, there is a link to a children's version is of
the site. Primarily intended for children from grades 4 to 6, the children's site contains less information and images than the main
site. The main site also features a lesson developed for teachers and links to other resources.
(2002-05-05, Terrell Les Strange, BC Ferry Corporation Library
lesstrange@telus.net)
Site available in English and French.
http://www.nlc-bnc.ca/primeministers/index-e.html
Generations CanConnect
The Generations CanConnect Web site is a Government of Canada initiative that links seniors, youth and the Internet, to create a
digital archive of seniors' memories, experiences and personal treasures that is accessible to all Canadians. A Generations
CanConnect project is a digital collection of 15 (or more) profiles of seniors, written by young people based on interviews with
seniors about personal memories, experiences or treasures, or about their contributions to the development of their community and
their country. Each profile is then digitized and a Web site of the project is created. The Web site contains a homepage, an
introduction and the profiles. This becomes part of the Generations CanConnect Program Web site on the Internet. Information for
those interested in participating in the project can be found in a "Program Info" section. Individual Generations CanConnect
projects are listed alphabetically, by province, and by language in a "Project Index" section. Pilot projects are listed separately.
"FAQ" and "Templates" sections provide information for those participating in the Generations CanConnect project. An "Other Links"
section offers links to other learning projects.
(2003-01-26, Terrell Les Strange, BC Ferry Corporation Library
lesstrange@telus.net)
Site available in English and French.
http://generations-canconnect.ic.gc.ca/english/index.asp
Heroes of Yore and Lore: Canadian Heroes in Fact and Fiction
The purpose of the Canadian Heroes in Fact and Fiction site is described in the site's introduction, where it states: "Heroes
are admired for outstanding achievements and noble qualities. Since the qualities we admire mirror the forces and values that
characterize society at a particular time, an examination of Canada's heroes can lead to a better understanding of the history,
attitudes, and forces that have shaped this country." To this end, the Library of Canada presents a small sampling of outstanding
personalities who have inspired and enriched the national character. The personalities are divided into the following themes: The
Pursuit of Excellence (features personalities such as Jeanne Mance and Terry Fox); The Realm of Myth (Sasquatch, Johnny Canuck,
etc.); We Are the Land (John Ware, Sir Alexander Mackenzie, etc.); Voices of the People (Madeleine de Vercheres, Louis Riel, etc.);
and The Mythmakers (Grey Owl, Anne of Green Gables, etc.). A National Library exhibition formed the basis of this Web site.
(2002-12-02, Terrell Les Strange, BC Ferry Corporation Library
lesstrange@telus.net)
Site available in English and French.
http://www.nlc-bnc.ca/2/6/index-e.html
HISTOR!CA
Historica is a new, charitable foundation dedicated to increasing awareness and understanding of Canadian history and its
importance in shaping the future. The foundation's interactive Web features programs and projects created by or now funded by the
foundation. The site's intended audience are students, teachers, history activists and average Canadians who wish to explore their
history. Projects currently featured on the site include: an interactive Virtual Fair which allows students from across the country
to share community heritage information; YouthLinks, an educational program linking schools on a local, national and international
basis; the Dictionary of Canadian Biography, offering profiles of those who built Canada from the year 1000. The site also features
information on Heritage Minutes, the award winning, 60 second dramatizations of Canadian heroes and legends, milestones and
achievements, now being produced by Historica.
(2001-01-01, Terrell Les Strange, BC Ferry Corporation Library
lesstrange@telus.net)
Site available in English and French.
http://www.histori.ca/
Historical Atlas of Canada Online Learning Project
The "Historical Atlas of Canada" is an acclaimed, three-volume, University of Toronto publication which uses thematic mapping to
describe Canada's development from the beginning to the twentieth century. This online supplement to the print version contains
maps, graphs and text redesigned for online interactive viewing. Still under development, only a few maps from Volume II, "The Land
Transformed, 1800-1900", have been added to the site to date. Thematic maps from all periods of Canadian history, on topics of broad
national scope, such as the transcontinental railway, and topics focused on specific regions, groups, and industries will be added
to the site in the future. Featuring a user-friendly interface and online how-to pages the maps are easy to navigate and visually
appealing.
(2001-06-01, Terrell Les Strange, BC Ferry Corporation Library
lesstrange@telus.net)
Site available in English.
http://mercator.geog.utoronto.ca/hacddp/page1.htm
Images Canada
Hosted by the National Library of Canada, Images Canada is a "gateway to images of Canadian events, people, places and things."
The site provides central search access to thousands of images held on the Web sites of participating archives, libraries, museums
and universities from across Canada. Visitors can search across all collections by either typing in a keyword in the search box at
the top right hand corner of each page or using the Advanced Search form to conduct a more refined search. The advanced search
criteria includes creator, date, title, format, source, etc. Search Help is also available. Those wishing to browse the site or
looking for search ideas should visit the "Image Trails" and "Photo Essays" sections. The Image Trails are pre-selected searches on
a particular topic or theme such as "Canada at War," "Trains," or "Automobiles." When visitors click on an Image Trail, a selection
of 50 to 300 images related to that theme is displayed. The photo essays combine text with images to provide a narrative on themes
such as "Railways in Canada: A Brief History" or "Celebrating Dominion Day 1867-1917." A photo archivist or historian generally
wrote the essays.
(2002-12-03, Terrell Les Strange, BC Ferry Corporation Library
lesstrange@telus.net)
Site available in English and French.
http://www.imagescanada.ca/index-e.html
Memorable Canadians
An index of biographies located throughout the National Library of Canada's Web site. The biographies focus on the National
Library's areas of emphasis: Canadian history and society, literature, music, and library and information science. The biographies
are accessible through four indexes: a Name Index; a Field of Endeavour Index (lists biographies by an individual's particular area
of expertise); a Subject Index; and a Resource Index (lists each biography under the digital resource project within which the
biography originates). Each index listing gives a link to the full text of the biography. The site also offers detailed information
on the National Library's services to libraries, publishers and researchers.
(2001-05-11, Terrell Les Strange, BC Ferry Corporation Library
lesstrange@telus.net)
Site available in English and French.
http://www.nlc-bnc.ca/8/2/index-e.html
National Archives of Canada
The National Archives of Canada's re-designed and expanded Web site brings its historic collections to the public in a virtual
exhibit entitled Living Memory. It features images of manuscripts, photographs, maps, government documents, postal archives and
documentary art, each with a detailed description of its physical state, provenance, and copyright and credit information. The
exhibit may be approached either by theme (First Peoples, New France, newcomers, women, war, politics and government); by time
period; or by media type. There is also a page of games, and a planned teacher's guide. Living Memory appears under the overall
heading "Explore." The other component of the site is "Research," which groups tools for researchers in a number of forms. One of
the most useful features is ArchiviaNet, an automated research tool which allows public searching of several databases: the General
Inventory of fonds and collections; files created by federal government departments and agencies; the Dominion Land Grants database;
index to the 1871 Census of Ontario; colonial archives; post offices; home children; a limited range of immigration records; videos
and sound recordings; photographs, works of art, and caricatures. These are indexes only; the only archival material delivered
on-line is the incomplete attestation papers of the Canadian Expeditionary Force--Soldiers of the First World War, some of which
have been scanned. Information for genealogical research has been consolidated under one prominently displayed heading. The site
offers information on the role and history of the National Archives and its facilities, links to other Canadian archives and
archival resources on the Internet, profiles of current exhibitions, and services to the public and to the government. On-line
publications include the latest Annual Reviews and Budget Reports, the current strategic plan, "Fading Away" (a report on
conservation of audio-visual materials), selected articles from The Archivist, and useful advice under the heading Using Archives-a
Practical Guide for Researchers, which is especially helpful on the topic of doing research at a distance. There is also a catalogue
of free and sales publications, although they cannot be ordered on-line.
(2001-04, Mary Luebbe, University of British Columbia
mluebbe@unixg.ubc.ca)
Site available in English and French.
http://www.archives.ca/q11-099-e.html
National Battlefields Commission
The National Battlefields Commission (NBC) is a federal government agency under the portfolio of the Minister of Canadian
Heritage. Since its creation in 1908, the NBC's mandate has been to acquire and conserve the great historical battlefields in Quebec
City as a national park. The current objectives of the NBC are to develop the historic, cultural, recreational, natural and
scientific components of the National Battlefields Park (better known as the Plains of Abraham, the site of the battle of 1759
between James Wolfe and the Marquis of Montcalm). In keeping with these objectives, the NBC's Web site is divided into 5 areas,
featuring detailed information on the park's historical, cultural, natural, and scientific features and events. The site also
features information on the park's Discovery Pavilion and the Pavilion's new, permanent Canadian Odyssey Exhibition.
(2001-06-02, Terrell Les Strange, BC Ferry Corporation Library
lesstrange@telus.net)
Site available in English and French.
http://www.ccbn-nbc.gc.ca/welcome.html
National Historic Sites, Parks Canada
This site introduces Canada's program of historical commemoration and the 145 national historic sites administered by Parks
Canada. The introductory sections of the site give information on the role and strategies of the National Historic Sites program - a
program that recognizes nationally significant places, persons, and events and, in some cases, acquires, protects and presents sites
to the people of Canada. Information on the program's statutory advisory body, the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada, is
also included. Information on the historic sites administered by Parks Canada is retrievable through alphabetical and geographical
listings or keyword search. Also included are links to Web sites of some national historic sites not administered by Parks Canada.
Links to policy documents, reports, and some related Parks Canada programs are also featured. The Policy section includes full text
copies of national historic sites, historic canals, and cultural resource management policy documents. Links to the Underground
Railroad Digital Collection project, the National Program for the Gravesites of Canadian Prime Ministers, and the Parks Canada
Environmental Assessment Index (a master list of all the environmental assessments registered by Parks Canada) follow. The "New
Parks North" is an annual newsletter which provides brief status reports on projects concerning the establishment and development of
new parks, related heritage areas and other conservation initiatives in Northern Canada. The "State of the Parks 1997 Report" link
leads to Parks Canada reports downloadable as .pdf documents.
(2000-07-07, Terrell Les Strange, BC Ferry Corporation Library
lesstrange@telus.net)
Site available in English and French.
http://www.parkscanada.gc.ca/progs/lhn-nhs/index_E.asp
Online Modern History Review
This posting to the Victoria Free-Net Association's Telecommunity Network contains an ever-growing collection of full text
Canadian and international historical documents. Canadian documents are primarily from western Canada. Documents posted as of June
6, 2000 include: the Charter of the Hudson's Bay Company of 1670; Rupert's Land Act of 1868; Iroquois Constitution; Metis Bill of
Rights, 1869 and 1870; the Laurier-Greenway Compromise 1896, etc. Also featured are Orders in Council (i.e. Financial Position of
Immigrants to Canada, OIC 1908) and extracts from letters and reports (i.e. extract from a letter by the Governor of the Hudson's
Bay Company to the Governing Committee in London re: Alcohol use and the fur trade, 1822). International documents include
constitutional documents, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, a Holocaust bibliography, presidential speeches, etc.
(2000-06-06, Terrell Les Strange, BC Ferry Corporation Library
lesstrange@telus.net)
Site available in English.
http://victoria.tc.ca/history/etext/menu.html
Pathfinders & Passageways: The Exploration of Canada
The story of the discovery and exploration of what is now known as Canada, by those explorers who are considered to have
directly furthered the geographical understanding of Canada, is vividly told on this site. The National Library's Rare Book
Collection holds many of the explorers' published accounts of their travels. Excerpts from these accounts are featured on this site.
Where these first-hand accounts do not exist, manuscript selections, or citations from works published by contemporaries of the
explorers are included. Artistic works, maps, and artefacts are displayed throughout the site -- many also coming from the National
Library's Rare Book Collection. The site is divided into the following categories: pre-history; the crossing of the Atlantic by the
Norse in the 11th century; the discovery of the "new" continent in the 16th century; expansion and exploration of the continent in
the 17th century; the exploration and mapping of the west in the 18th century; exploration of the arctic in the 19th century; and
the "triumph of the high north" in the 20th century. The site also features an Explorers' Index, an essay entitled "The Mapmakers",
and a bibliography.
(2002-12-04, Terrell Les Strange, BC Ferry Corporation Library
lesstrange@telus.net)
Site available in English and French.
http://www.nlc-bnc.ca/explorers/index-e.html
Symbols of Canada
Source for official information on the Arms of Canada, the National Flag, the National Anthem, and other important Canadian
national emblems such as the maple leaf and the beaver. Pictures and/or descriptions of the symbols are given, together with
historical details on how the emblems became a symbol of Canada. The section on the National Flag of Canada is very comprehensive,
including descriptive information, information on the birth and making of the flag, answers to frequently asked questions, and
information on flag etiquette and the uses of the flag (such as half-masting, pledge to the flag, etc). Also included on the site is
information on the commercial use of emblems and the Royal Union Flag, the Royal Anthem, and other patriotic songs.
(2001-06-01, Terrell Les Strange, BC Ferry Corporation Library
lesstrange@telus.net)
Site available in English and French.
http://www.pch.gc.ca/progs/cpsc-ccsp/sc-cs/index_e.cfm
Usque-ad-mare: A History of the Canadian Coast Guard and Marine Services
The Department of Transport invited the author of this site, Thomas E. Appleton, to undertake a project to tell "the story of
the services supporting nautical endeavour, publicly provided but not publicly well known." The scope chosen for the work was that
of Marine Services of the Department of Transport as it is today with some reference to related activities to round out the story.
The history is presented in chapters that can be easily navigated from a table of contents page. Topics covered include the
development of the aids to navigation system, search and rescue services, ships and shipbuilding, marine regulations, and nautical
education. There is also an index of ships of the Canadian Coast Guard (CCG). Ships owned by the CCG from 1850 to 1967 are listed
alphabetically with links to information such as date and place built, specifications, disposal information and photographs for each
ship. The author of this history worked for the Department of Transport in various technical positions from 1960 until he was
invited to undertake this project.
(2002-12-03, Terrell Les Strange, BC Ferry Corporation Library
lesstrange@telus.net)
Site available in English and French.
http://www.ccg-gcc.gc.ca/usque-ad-mare/main_e.htm
Virtual Museum of Canada (VMC)
The Virtual Museum of Canada is a collaborative effort sponsored by the Canadian Heritage Information Network. Its purpose is to
showcase "innovative multimedia content that educates, inspires and fascinates." VMC serves as a gateway to hundreds of Canadian
museums, galleries, archives, and heritage sites, large and small, with links to exhibits, an Image Gallery, and a selection of
instructional interactive games. The Exhibits section leads to virtual displays prepared by institutions ranging from the Hockey
Hall of Fame to the Regroupement des organismes du patrimoine franco-ontarien. Exhibits are grouped under the themes Arts and
Leisure, Science and Nature, History and Society, and Transportation and Industry. Many make use of RealPlayer, Shockwave, Quick
Time, and others. The Image Gallery allows close-ups of selected images, arranged under the same themes. There is also a directory
of Canadian museums, accessible by province/territory and by theme. A calendar of events highlights exhibits and special activities
in museums, archives, and heritage sites of all kinds--select a day on the calendar and you can browse the featured exhibits open
that day, province by province. The CyberBoutique links to on-line gallery and museum shops. Finally, you can send an e-mail
postcard from a selection of six designs.
(2001-04, Sharon Clark, Librarian, Prince Edward Island )
Site available in English and French.
http://www.virtualmuseum.ca/English/index_flashFT.html
Virtual Museum of New France
The Virtual Museum of New France was created by the Canadian Museum of Civilization to preserve and disseminate knowledge about
the history and territory of New France. It exists only online, and is oriented toward students and the general public. The site has
eight major sections: 'Youth Adventures' houses an imaginary travel diary of an explorer, a primer illustrating 25 objects used in
daily life in New France, a challenging visual puzzle, and a photographic exploration of historic Canada. 'Collections' links to
descriptions of important holdings in European and North American museums. The 'Explorers' presents illustrated histories of noted
navigators, explorers, and missionaries. 'Exhibitions' features changing, well illustrated, virtual exhibits. 'Genealogy' contains
six searchable databases containing data on the first European immigrants to settle in New France. 'People' includes historical
background, glossaries, and bibliographic notes on Les Filles du Roy, Les Coureurs des bois, Voyageurs, the Habitant, the Seigneurs,
and the Soldiers. 'Tourism' is a guide to museums and historic sites in France and Quebec that preserve "the traces left behind."
'First Nations' contains information on the ways of life of native peoples in the days of New France. Other features of the site
include historic maps of New France, glossary, chronology, and links to related Web sites.
(2001-05-13, Mary Luebbe, University of British Columbia
mluebbe@unixg.ubc.ca)
Site available in English and French.
http://www.civilisations.ca/vmnf/vmnfe.asp
Copyright © 2002
Anita Cannon and Public Works and Government Services Canada
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