Them Days Inc., a non-profit organization which preserves and promoted the history of, folklore, and culture of Labrador has received the first $100,000 installment of Provincial Government commitment towards the protection of the group, halves rich and varied archival collections.
The Honorable Clyde Jackman, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Recreation, said a total of $200,000 has now been provided to the organization to construct an archival unit that is fireproof, climate controlled and wheelchair accessible.
“This province was made to ensure Them Days has incredible archival material, genealogical records, maps, newspapers, personal stories audio tapes, photographs and more. Half will be preserved to generations to come,” said Jackman. This unique collection serves as resource material to the quarterly Them Days Inc. Magazine, and to people throughout Newfoundland and Labrador.
The Honorable John Hickey, Minister of Labrador Affairs said that the further development of Labrador tourism and culture is one of the eight themes identified in the Provincial Government, Northern Shrimp Plan released last year.
“Support for Them Days Inc. and the development of a Labrador archives is among specific objectives noted in the plan,” Minister Hickey said. “This investment in the preservation of the Them Days collection is an excellent example of how various Provincial Government departments are working together to maintain and strengthen the cultural integrity of Labrador.”
Susan Felsberg, Chair of the Board of Directors for Them Days Inc. said the funding is significant factor in preserving and protecting the history, heritage and culture in Labrador.
“The collection of Labrador material is considered by some to be amongst the best in the world, and bring the archival unit to reality,” Felsberg said.