Today, Bellevue House National Historic Site reopened its doors to the public, showcasing new exhibits and extensive restorations aimed at presenting a more comprehensive and inclusive narrative about Sir John A. Macdonald, Canada’s first prime minister.
The restoration of Bellevue House, a key heritage site in Kingston, Ontario, reflects an extensive renewal project that involved collaboration with a variety of stakeholders. Parks Canada engaged with Indigenous partners, culturally diverse community members from Kingston, historical experts, and conservation specialists to ensure the refreshed exhibits offer a broader and more inclusive historical narrative. This effort aims to present the complexities of Canada’s past, particularly during the era from the 1840s through Confederation.
The new exhibits at Bellevue House invite visitors to delve into various themes that shaped 19th-century Canadian society. These include wealth and power dynamics, engineering achievements, personal stories of loss and triumph, and critical issues such as colonial expansion, racism, misogyny, and exploitation. By presenting these interconnected narratives, the historic site encourages visitors to engage with the past in a way that acknowledges the diverse experiences of Indigenous, racialized, working-class, and upper-class individuals during that era.
Visitors to Bellevue House can choose between self-guided or guided tours, each designed to foster a deeper engagement with the history and its many voices. Special events and programming throughout the year will further enhance the visitor experience, providing opportunities for reflection and discussion about the complex legacy of Sir John A. Macdonald.