Given the increased interest in Cook's work in our region, the re-development1 of the Captain James Cook Historic Site in Corner Brook is very timely and will serve to increase international awareness of his exploits in this region.
The site was originally developed by Parks Canada as a National Historic Plaque site and still carries this designation and the associated prominence of a Parks Canada site.2
In keeping with Cook's penchant for the "high ground", the site is on a prominent headland that overlooks both the city of Corner Brook and the adjacent Bay of Islands where Cook developed his craft. The site has amazing viewscapes.
While the natural surroundings are spectacular, people will be drawn to the site to increase their knowledge and understanding of Cook and his achievements. The interpretive pieces give visitors an insight into his career and achievements.
The two bronze plaques placed at the site originally have been refurbished and reinstated along with five new interpretive panels which chronologically detail Cook's arrival in the new world to his eventual departure for the south Pacific in 1768.
These pieces are displayed in a circular landscaped viewing space where the panels compete with the beautiful scenery for the visitor's attention.
Cook's influence is clearly seen in the naming of bays and islands in the region. Corner Brook is situated in the Bay of Islands with many of the islands sharing nomenclature with other regions Cook surveyed and explored throughout the world. The tourism industry is showing increased interested in Cook's exploits and the potential for marketing the area accordingly.
An official opening of the site is planned for the summer of 2010 with visitors and invited guests participating in a celebration of both the site opening and Cook's remarkable achievements. Comments or inquiries on the site should be sent to the Corner Brook Stream Development Corporation, (email info@cbstream.com).
Brent Humphries
References
Originally published in Cook's Log, page 18, volume 32, number 4 (2009).
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