New S.S. Klondike National Historic Site Management Plan Released

From: Parks Canada

Plan contributes to preserving our nation’s heritage and connecting Canadians to history in the Yukon

July 26, 2022

National historic sites reflect the rich and varied heritage of Canada and provide an opportunity for Canadians to learn more about our diverse history. Parks Canada’s network of national heritage places represents the very best that Canada has to offer and tells stories of who we are, including the histories, cultures, and contributions of Indigenous peoples.

A new management plan for S.S. Klondike National Historic Site was recently finalized. Reviewed every 10 years, management plans are a requirement of the Parks Canada Agency Act and guide the management of national historic sites, national parks and national marine conservation areas.

The new plan for S.S. Klondike National Historic Site outlines the following key strategies:

·  Key strategy 1 focuses on the long-term conservation of the S.S. Klondike and its associated cultural resources.

·  Key strategy 2 focuses on offering interactive and innovative visitor experiences at the site that strengthen local engagement, immerse youth, attract target audiences and increase revenue.

·  Key strategy 3 focuses on involving partners and stakeholders in understanding, promoting and raising awareness of the S.S. Klondike National Historic Site.

The S.S. Klondike National Historic Site Management Plan includes initiatives aimed at building on and improving collaboration with local Indigenous communities and further integrating their perspectives in the overall site presentation and knowledge.

The management plan for S.S. Klondike National Historic Site was based on input from Indigenous partners in Whitehorse, the territorial government, the local municipality, heritage and tourism organizations, local residents, as well as visitors past and present. Through this management plan, Parks Canada will protect an important example of cultural heritage in Canada, engage and collaborate with Indigenous peoples, and provide an opportunity for Canadians to experience and discover history in new and innovative ways.

The S.S. Klondike National Historic Site Management Plan is available on the Parks Canada website at: www.parkscanada.gc.ca/ssklondikeplan. To learn more about S.S. Klondike National Historic Site, please visit:  www.parkscanada.gc.ca/ssklondike.

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Quotes

“National historic sites are a source of shared pride for all Canadians. They help protect our shared cultural heritage and tell the stories of Canada from all perspectives. I would like to thank everyone who contributed to the management plan for S.S. Klondike National Historic Site that will help shape the future of this treasured place. I applaud this collaborative effort to ensure S.S. Klondike National Historic Site continues to protect our shared national heritage and will be enjoyed for generations to come.”

The Honourable Dr. Brendan Hanley,
Member of Parliament, Yukon

Quick facts

• The largest vessel ever to ply the Canadian portion of the Yukon River, the S.S. Klondike was built by the British Yukon Navigation Co. and launched in Whitehorse in 1937. It is one of Canada’s few remaining steam-powered paddlewheelers and now rests on the homelands of the Ta’an Kwäch’än Council and Kwanlin Dün First Nation in Whitehorse.
• The S.S. Klondike National Historic Site commemorates inland water transportation in the Yukon. Representing Yukon steamers and other vessels, it pays tribute to an era before roads, when riverboats and rail linked the Yukon to the outside world.
• The S.S. Klondike is an icon for Whitehorse, contributing to the identity and landscape of this vibrant northern city. More than 35,000 people typically visit the vessel every year.
• The Government of Canada celebrates families with free admission to all Parks Canada administered places for youth 17 and under. Heritage places are a great way for youth to experience the outdoors and learn more about the environment and history.

Associated links

• S.S. Klondike National Historic Site Website
• Parks Canada Yukon Facebook
• Parks Canada Yukon Twitter

Contacts

Karen Murray
Public Relations and & Communications Officer
Yukon Field Unit
867-993-7230
Karen.murray@pc.gc.ca

Media Relations
Parks Canada Agency
1-855-862-1812
pc.media@pc.gc.ca

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