FOR RELEASE #06-204
August 30, 2006
MAYO LEGION HALL DESIGNATED AS YUKON HISTORIC SITE
WHITEHORSE - Tourism and Culture Minister Elaine Taylor is pleased to announce that the Mayo Legion Hall has been designated as a Yukon Historic Site, under the Yukon Historic Resources Act.
"I would like to commend the First Nation of Na-Cho Nyak Dun, and all the citizens of Mayo, for their commitment to preserving Yukon's built heritage," Taylor said. "The Legion Hall is an important part of the community's social fabric, and its designation as a Yukon Historic Site is a key step in ensuring its future."
The heritage values of the Mayo Legion Hall lie in its architecture and social history. The structure demonstrates strong craftsmanship, is a prominent waterfront landmark, and is the only Red River Frame-style building remaining in the Mayo area.
The Legion Hall was built in 1936 by Alex Nicol, one of Mayo's founders. He constructed the building as a speculative venture during a mining boom, at a time when the Mayo Mining District was the economic engine of the Yukon. For much of its history, it served as a meeting place and learning centre. From 1972 to 2003 it was a Royal Canadian Legion Branch, and it is the only remaining historic structure in Yukon to have served that purpose.
The building also has a strong connection with the First Nation of Na-Cho Nyak Dun. Early land claims meetings were held there. These helped spark the process for settlement of Yukon First Nation land claims, which strongly affected every Yukon community and shaped one of the most significant eras of Yukon history.
The Mayo Legion Hall is the fourth place to be designated as a Yukon Historic Site. The Mabel McIntyre House in Mayo was the first to be designated, in October 2003.
The Mayo Legion Hall was nominated for designation as a historic site by its owner, the First Nation of Na-Cho Nyak Dun. This nomination was evaluated and recommended by the Yukon Heritage Resources Board and is supported by the Department of Tourism and Culture.
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| Contact: | |
| Peter Carr | Michael Edwards |
| Cabinet Communications | A/Communications Officer, Tourism & Culture |
| (867) 667-8688 | (867) 667-8947 |
| peter.carr@gov.yk.ca |
