The North Cape Coastal Drive area will soon be the path to a new anchor tourism attraction. Tignish Initiatives Corporation, a non-profit community development organization based in West Prince, is creating a cultural tourism attraction at Skinners Pond to be known as the “Stompin’ Tom Centre and Schoolhouse.”
The Honourable Gail Shea, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, on behalf of the Honourable Rob Moore, Minister of State (Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency), and the Honourable Wade MacLauchlan, Premier of Prince Edward Island, today announced government funding for the project.
The development of the new attraction will involve the construction of a 4,000 square foot facility, which will serve as the primary access point to the site. The Centre will operate as a multi-purpose performance space, designed to provide a unique songwriter’s circle experience, and equipped to host dinner theatre productions, corporate meetings, and other special events. The schoolhouse that Stompin’ Tom attended as a child will be renovated, showcasing his journey across Canada and the influence it had on his songwriting. A number of property upgrades and renovations to the Connors’ homestead will also be completed to complement the overall project.
Quick Facts
• The Government of Canada, through ACOA’s Innovative Communities Fund is supporting this project with a contribution of $1,253,200.
• The Government of Prince Edward Island is supporting the project with a contribution of $441,250. This contribution includes previous funding to allow the project to move forward, as well as $150,000 to support the next phase of development.
• The new attraction will commemorate the life and cultural legacy of Stompin’ Tom Connors and provide a new showcase for established and emerging Canadian songwriters and performers. The attraction will also strengthen the touring experience of the North Cape Coastal Drive with an authentic cultural experience, build community capacity, create sustainable employment for residents of West Prince, and generate increased economic activity in rural PEI.
• The property’s strategic design will provide an interactive experience for visitors of all ages. Various activities and concerts will take place daily, featuring local musicians and storytellers.
• Tignish Initiatives Corporation was formed in 1993 as a non-profit community development organization mandated to pursue development initiatives for the Tignish area. The organization is overseen by an eight member board of directors, and managed daily by a full-time General Manager. Since its inception, the organization has successfully led many capital projects, and organized a number of popular events and activities.
Quotes
“Our Government appreciates that communities are in the best position to identify local strengths and opportunities, and we remain committed to helping them chart their own course and pursue avenues for economic growth. I am pleased to announce our Government’s support for Tignish Initiatives Corporation to help the group move forward with a project that strategically links together tourism, culture, heritage, and economic development, and promotes the legacy of a true Canadian icon, Stompin’ Tom Connors.”
- The Honourable Gail Shea, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, on behalf of the Honourable Rob Moore, Minister of State (Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency)
“Stompin' Tom Connors is a Canadian legend and an important part of Prince Edward Island and Canada's cultural fabric. His songs and stories speak to what it means to be Canadian. This new centre will serve as a memorial to Tom, and as an important cultural destination drawing visitors and Stompin' Tom's fans to West Prince. It will also give future generations of Canadian musicians a venue to hone their craft and find creative inspiration.”
- The Honourable Wade MacLauchlan, Premier of Prince Edward Island
“Tignish Initiatives is pleased to receive government support to establish this new attraction in Skinners Pond which will honor Stompin’ Tom and promote Canadian musicians. The public is invited to view plans Monday August 3rd on site in Skinners Pond from 1:30 to 4:30.”
- Ms. Anne Arsenault, General Manager, Tignish Initiatives Corporation