News release

Funding Announced For Silver Dart Centennial

Tourism, Culture and Heritage (Dec. 2003 - Jan. 2011)

Baddeck will mark the 100th anniversary of the first powered aircraft flight in Canada and the provincial and federal governments are contributing more than $750,000 for the celebrations.

The Aerial Experiment Association, chaired by renowned inventor Alexander Graham Bell, launched the historic flight of the Silver Dart over the Bras d'Or Lake on Feb. 23, 1909.

MLA Keith Bain, on behalf of Bill Dooks, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Heritage, announced a $250,000 provincial contribution to the Silver Dart Centennial Association today, Feb. 5, in Baddeck.

"The legacy of Alexander Graham Bell and the Aerial Experiment Association is an important part of Nova Scotia's history and appeals to residents and visitors alike," said Mr. Bain. "I would like to acknowledge the hard work of the members of the Silver Dart Centennial Association and their supporters as they have moved forward with planning for the 2009 anniversary."

John Lynn, CEO of Enterprise Cape Breton Corporation, represented Keith Ashfield, Minister of State, Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, at the announcement.

"In February 1909, the Silver Dart took to the air above the frozen waters of the Bras d'Or Lakes in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, marking the first powered, heavier-than-air flight in Canada," said Mr. Ashfield to announce the federal contribution for the celebration.

"Government's investment of $570,000 in the work of the Silver Dart Centennial Association not only serves to commemorate the birth of Canadian aviation, it provides a signature event for Cape Breton's 2009 tourism season that will generate positive economic benefits for the local economy."

The long-term goal of the centennial celebration is an expansion of the Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site to permanently display the replica of the Silver Dart.

Events will be held throughout the year in Baddeck. A highlight will be National Aviation Day on Feb. 23, during which a replica built by Welland Aviation Group will be on display.

"From air performances and flight simulators, to a kite festival, musical celebrations and a host of community activities, there promises to be something for everyone during the year's celebrations," said Eleanor Anderson, project manager for the Silver Dart Centennial Association.