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Oil Springs, ON – A capacity crowd gathered at The Oil Museum of Canada on Friday, May 2nd, to see the unveiling of a new 52-cent stamp issued by Canada Post, commemorating the 150th anniversary of the first commercial oil well in North America.
The stamp features two key oil pioneers from Lambton’s history: James Miller Williams and Charles Nelson Tripp. Williams began the modern oil industry in Oil Springs when he refined oil from North America’s first dug well. Tripp used the gum beds of Oil Springs to create asphalt. Starting today, their likenesses appear on the 2,250,000 stamps available across the country.
“We are pleased that Canada Post has chosen to put the spotlight on Oil Springs during our 150th anniversary celebrations,” said Gord Perry, Mayor, Village of Oil Springs. “It’s important we remember our history and our heritage, and tell the rest of the world about our special place in history. This stamp will help us tell our story.”
Joined by Lambton County Warden Jim Burns, Mayor Perry unveiled the stamp at The Oil Museum of Canada, a National Historic Site, owned and operated by the County.
“Oil is a global industry and a global story. Oil Springs holds a unique place in this story,” said Warden Burns. “This is a significant day for Lambton County and it is an honour to see our history displayed on a postage stamp that will be sold across the country.”
Today’s unveiling was just one of many events planned throughout Lambton County to celebrate the 150th anniversary. On May 8, renowned author Thomas Homer-Dixon speaks at Petrolia’s Victoria Hall; On July 1, is The Enniskillen Bus & Driving Tour; On July 18-20, is The Oil History and Heritage Weekend including The Black Gold Barrel Bonanza; On August 9 -10 are Anniversary Celebrations including a parade, The Oil Baron’s Ball, fireworks, and more. For a complete list, visit www.2008celebrate.com.
For more information about Lambton County, visit www.lambtononline.ca.
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Contact:
Connie Bell, Supervisor
Oil Museum of Canada, County of Lambton
Telephone: 519 834-2840
e-mail: connie.bell@county-lambton.on.ca
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