Happy Canada Day! On July 1, 1867, the nation was officially born when the Constitution Act joined three provinces into one country: Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and the Canada province, which then split into Ontario and Quebec. Canada became a kingdom within the British Empire in its own right on that date, named the Dominion of Canada. As a result, it gained an increased level of self-governance, although the British parliament and Cabinet still maintained political control over certain political areas, such as foreign affairs, national defence, and constitutional changes.
The holiday called Dominion Day was officially established in 1879, but it wasn't observed by many Canadians, who considered themselves to be British citizens. Dominion Day started to catch on when the 50th anniversary of the confederation rolled around in 1917. In 1946, a bill was put forth to rename Dominion Day, but arguments in the House of Commons over what to call the holiday stalled the bill. The 100th anniversary in 1967 saw the growth of the spirit of Canadian patriotism and Dominion Day celebrations really began to take off.
Although Canada existed prior to 1867, within both the French and British empires, Canada Day is frequently referred to as "Canada's birthday", particularly in the popular press. Canada gradually gained increasing independence over the years until finally becoming completely independent in 1982, when the Constitution Act, 1982, fully patriated the Canadian constitution.
This year marks the 150th birthday of the Dominion of Canada!
This Geo-Event is a simple get together on Canada Day to recognize our friends across the water and celebrate their big day.
The event will run from 2pm until 3pm (the final hours of Dominion Day in Canada) at Merriwa Park, Wangaratta. There is plenty of picnic space available and a couple of BBQs if people would like to cook on them.
*Are you a newbie cacher attending your first event? If you enjoy geocaching and wish to take your membership further, you will be eligible for 1 month free upgrade to a premium membership. See me at the event for the details.*