A crowd gathered yesterday evening to join in the official opening of the newly restored Farmers' Bank of Rustico. Through the hard work of a dedicated committee of volunteers, and with the assistance of federal and provincial governments and other generous supporters, the Farmers' Bank of Rustico has been completely restored, inside and out.
In addition to the restoration, the Farmers' Bank is now home to an interpretive facility and exhibition area for local artists and artisans. The interpretive component focuses on the rich history of the bank, the local Acadian population, and other related assets in the area.
"The Farmers' Bank of Rustico is an important part of our Island history, and I would like to commend the Friends of the Farmers' Bank for the work they've done to preserve it for future generations," said Wayne Easter, Member of Parliament for Malpeque, on behalf of the Government of Canada. "This restoration project will also see the Bank again contributing to the local economy by drawing Islanders and tourists into the community. The Government of Canada is proud to support the Farmers' Bank of Rustico with a $123,733 contribution through the Canada Millennium Partnership Program."
This partnership program funds up to one third of eligible projects costs, while other organizations and the private sector provide the remaining two thirds.
The Farmers' Bank was founded in 1864 by Father Georges-Antoine Belcourt in an effort to improve Rustico residents' control over their economic lives. It is believed to be the first bank of its kind in North America. It is also credited with sowing the seeds of self-help and community development which later flourished throughout Atlantic Canada and across the country as the co-operative movement.
"Because of the significant contributions he made to Rustico and Prince Edward Island, the museum exhibit pays tribute to Father Belcourt and his vision," says Judy MacDonald, President of the Friends of the Farmers' Bank. "As well, the exhibit will be dedicated to the Acadian roots of the community."
The exhibition area is located on the second floor of the Farmers' Bank and features the work of local artists and artisans such as potter Carol Downe, painter Foncy Deagle, and weaver Anne Marie Buote.
"The Farmers' Bank is truly a community treasure and has been beautifully restored," said Beth MacKenzie, MLA for Park Corner - Oyster Bed. "It offers a place to remember our heritage, appreciate our local talent, and teach our youth."
The restoration of the Farmers' Bank of Rustico was made possible through the assistance of the Government of Canada's Millennium Partnership Program, the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, Human Resources Development Canada, Parks Canada, the PEI Department of Development and Technology, the PEI Department of Education, and the Community Museums Association of Prince Edward Island. The Friends of the Farmers' Bank of Rustico continue to raise funds to support the project.
For further information on this project or on the Government of Canada's millennium initiative, visit the Canada and the Millennium web site at www.millennium.gc.ca or call 1-800-O-Canada.