Hello Keewatin supporters!
Spring is here and we are renewing our commitment to keep the steamship SS Keewatin in Port McNicoll. We will never stop fighting for it to remain in its rightful home!
As the snow thaws, be prepared to display your lawn signs again with pride. If anyone needs a replacement (sign or frame), please email us at keepkeewatinhome@gmail.com.
The status of the ship has not yet been determined, although it is likely the Canada Revenue Agency will play a defining role - based on a valuation that Skyline (the vessel's owners) have asked them for.
Kingston's museum has been granted category B heritage status which allows them to receive the ship. However our research suggests that they lack the resources and infrastructure to take possession of the vessel immediately, which gives us time.
Our strategy for 2022 is to continue to keep the pressure on both Skyline and the government to ensure the Kee remains in Port, while at the same time working with local and national partners and governmental agencies to provide an alternative independent conservation and heritage organization - one which has a broad appeal and national scope.
With this firmly in mind, volunteers (including Bruce Stanton, Fred Addis, and myself) - working together with finance, heritage, and business experts from across North Simcoe - are proud to announce the launch of the Canadian Museum of Water - Musée canadien de l'eau. (www.canadianmuseumofwater.org
The Canadian Museum of Water concept uses Port McNicoll's physical and historic assets to tell a larger story, one in which CP rail heritage and steamships play an important role. The concept has the support of the UNESCO World Water Network (www.watermuseums.net a global network of water-themed museums; at present we are its only Canadian member.
Over the next few weeks and months, more information will be released about our project. The museum will make a significant difference to the heritage landscape, as well as water conservation, education, and advocacy in Canada. Our exhibits will be placed online initially, with an expected transition to a physical space in downtown Port McNicoll for the Summer season. Ultimately, we aim to work with the Township and developers to have a permanent exhibition space built to house the museum and its auxiliary components. The concept is unique, ambitious, and timely. It is designed to include the Keewatin but is not dependent on it. The CMW-MCE is here to stay.
While we continue to push for the Keewatin to remain in its home, we also appreciate your support for this groundbreaking initiative. We believe the Canadian Museum of Water is the organization which can build a legacy for Port McNicoll and curate the SS Keewatin's story for the next century.
Thank you for your continuing support.
Dan and the team at #KeepKeewatinHome