TORONTO - Today, the Ontario Heritage Trust unveiled a marker commemorating the gravesite of the Honourable Edward Blake, premier of Ontario from 1871 to 1872.

"Edward Blake was one of the early political leaders in Ontario," said the Honourable Lincoln M. Alexander, Chairman of the Ontario Heritage Trust. "The commemoration of his gravesite will highlight his service to the province and stand as a reminder of his contributions."

Born in 1833 near Strathroy, Edward Blake was the second premier of Ontario. As a prominent lawyer, he was the foremost expert on the constitution following Confederation. He was elected simultaneously to the House of Commons and the Legislative Assembly of Ontario. In 1871, he became premier of the province and accomplished much during his short term in office. In 1872, Blake decided to focus on federal politics. He died in Toronto on March 1, 1912.

"As Ontario's second premier, Edward Blake played a significant role in the early growth and development of this province," said Minister of Culture Aileen Carroll. "He is an important figure in our history and this gravesite marker will ensure that he is remembered."

The Premiers' Gravesites Program honours former premiers and their service to Ontario by marking their gravesites. Specially designed bronze markers inscribed with the individual premier's name and dates of service will be installed at each gravesite, with flagpoles flying the Ontario flag, where possible.

This program is administered by the Ontario Heritage Trust with funding support from the Government of Ontario. The Trust is an agency of the government, dedicated to identifying, preserving, protecting and promoting Ontario's heritage for the benefit of present and future generations.

Quick facts

• Eighteen premiers will be commemorated through the Premiers' Gravesites Program.
• To date, this is the third marker to be unveiled through the program. Markers commemorating the gravesites of the Honourable John Sandfield Macdonald and the Honourable Harry Corwin Nixon were unveiled in late 2008 and early 2009.

Learn more

For more information on the Premiers' Gravesites Program, visit www.heritagetrust.on.ca.

-30-

Contact

Catrina Colme
Marketing and Communications Coordinator
Ontario Heritage Trust
Telephone: 416-325-5074
Email: catrina.colme@heritagetrust.on.ca