Here is a press release from our provincial government about Medalta Potteries. Thought you might all be interested.'
Province partners with Historic Clay District to preserve history
Medicine Hat site portrays dynamic chapter in Alberta's economic and social development
Edmonton... The Alberta government is contributing $750,000 in a five-year partnership with the Medicine Hat Clay Industries National Historic District to help ensure the success of an education and restoration project for the historic buildings, collections and equipment at the Medalta Potteries site.
The Historic Clay District is a working museum providing year-round interpretation and educational programming about Medicine Hat?s historic clay industries. An abundance of clay and natural gas in the area fueled this manufacturing hub for brick and ceramic products in the early and mid 20th century.
?Creating and preserving a legacy Albertans can be proud of is a goal this province will continue to make a priority,? said Lindsay Blackett, Minister of Culture and Community Spirit. ?These funds will help to continue the Historic Clay District?s work of enhancing learning and preserving an important part of Alberta?s history.?
Funds for the project are part of the provincial government?s investment in communities through the Alberta Historical Resources Foundation. This foundation helps preserve and interpret Alberta?s historical resources, primarily by encouraging and sponsoring community heritage initiatives.
?Medicine Hat is proud of its industrial heritage,? said Rob Renner, MLA for Medicine Hat. ?Once completed, the facilities in the Historic Clay District will solidify Medicine Hat as a city with world-class historic sites and exhibits.?
The Friends of Medalta Society, which operates the Historic Clay District, will receive $150,000 each year for five years, totaling $750,000.
?The restoration work that the Friends are undertaking will enhance this site as a great tourism destination,? said Len Mitzel, MLA for Cypress-Medicine Hat. ?I am very proud that the Government of Alberta is making this investment in our region.?
?We are extremely pleased that the Province of Alberta has taken this unique step to partner with the Society, the City of Medicine Hat and our private supporters to tell the story of the Historic Clay District,? said Friends of Medalta Society chair, Adolf Seiler.
The Historic Clay District is located at 713 Medalta Avenue in Medicine Hat. The museum and gift shop are open seven days a week from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. For further information on the museum, visit
http://www.medalta.org or call 403-529-1070.
