East Gwillimbury Revitalizing Its Heritage Tourism

McGuinty Government Helping Attract Visitors, Boosting Local Economy

East Gwillimbury will attract more tourists by revitalizing its heritage facilities at the historic Sharon Temple.

Through the Rural Economic Development Program, Ontario is helping the Sharon Temple Museum Society to:

• increase admissions and revenue
• build a new gift shop
• improve exhibit and event space
• renovate existing heritage buildings
• explore new opportunities to expand the tourism season.

QUOTES

“The McGuinty government appreciates how culture contributes to a complete and vibrant community. Improvements to the Sharon Temple will help increase attendance and create opportunities for new jobs.”
- Leona Dombrowsky, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs

“One of the keys to strengthening the tourism industry is extending the length and improving the quality of a visitor’s stay.  Not only will this investment help make the Sharon Temple an attraction of choice for travelers to the province, it will also benefit local residents and businesses by improving the region’s tourism offerings.”
- Monique Smith, Minister of Tourism

“Thanks to the support of the Ontario government, we are able to build upon the Museum Society’s mandate to preserve and promote the Sharon Temple, a nationally designated historic site built in 1832.”
- Albert Schrauwers, Secretary, Sharon Temple Museum Society

QUICK FACTS 

• The Sharon Temple Museum Society and the Institute Without Boundaries at George Brown College are receiving up to $41,000 through the Rural Economic Development Program. 

• Since 2003, Ontario has invested $77.5 million in 240 projects through the Rural Economic Development Program. 

LEARN MORE

Discover more about the Sharon Temple.

Visit the Town of East Gwillimbury.

For more information, contact:

Kelly Synnott, Minister's Office, 416-326-6439
Brent Ross, Communications Branch, 416-326-9342