A book on the architectural history of the three Maritime legislative assembly buildings will be launched at Province House on Thursday, November 18 at 5 p.m.
“Building for Democracy: The History and Architecture of the Legislative Buildings of Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and New Brunswick,” was written by Mr. James W. Macnutt of Charlottetown. Mr. Macnutt has written and lectured on architectural history and is very familiar with the Legislative Assembly of PEI, having served as its first legislative counsel and as law clerk. The book documents, through pictures and text, the origins and usage of the architectural styles in which the buildings are constructed and the origins of the form and function of the various parliamentary chambers and spaces in each building as they continue to allow for the functioning of modern legislatures and the practice of responsible government.
Hon. Kathleen Casey, Speaker of the Legislative Assembly of PEI, is excited to see the book published. “Since becoming Speaker of the House in 2007, I continue to feel so privileged and fortunate to come to work everyday at beautiful and historic Province House. It is such a special building. I am constantly reminded of the history and the many contributions made by Islanders in creating, and making stronger, this wonderful Province. So many of the decisions that have led to the greatness of PEI and our Island way of life were made right here in this building. This is an important book and I am sure those interested in Province House and in the practice of parliamentary democracy in Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick and Nova Scotia will throughly enjoy it.”
Part of the role of the Office of the Speaker of the Legislative Assembly is to promote the principles of parliamentary democracy and to contribute to fostering a deeper understanding of the legislature and of our system of responsible government. “I hope that this comprehensive architectural history will serve as a guide for visitors and users alike to assist in explaining and interpreting the history, symbolism and uses of their respective buildings in the democratic process,” said Speaker Casey.
“2011 marks the 160th anniversary of the implementation of responsible government in Prince Edward Island. In addition, this year marks the 163rd consecutive year that the PEI Assembly has been meeting at Province House. These are important milestones and should not be taken lightly or for granted. Province House is one of the Island’s most important and recognizable buildings, symbolizing our independence and full provincial status within Canada. It should be celebrated and this book will assist us in doing just that.”
“Building for Democracy” explores the many common architectural themes shared by legislative assembly buildings and why they were built in a very specific architectural style. It examines specific questions such as why the Legislative Council and House of Assembly Chambers are located on the 2nd floor, why the “upper chambers” tend to be located where they are and why very carefully chosen locations within the city were selected as the construction sites. “It is through publications such as these, and the documenting of this important historical information, that further analysis of our Provincial legislatures may be conducted and placed in the proper context,” said Speaker Casey. “Publications such as these contribute to even more fully exploring and appreciating our system of parliamentary government and the elected Assembly.”
The book will be launched at 5 p.m., Thursday, November 18 in the Lecture Theatre, Province House, 165 Richmond Street, Charlottetown. Mr. Macnutt, Speaker Casey, Members of the Legislative Assembly and others will be in attendance. All are invited to attend. Books will be available for sale. In addition, Mr. Macnutt will be offering, time permitting, an architectural tour of Province House after the book signing.