On December 20th in 1859, the first efforts were made to build one of Canada’s most iconic structures: the Parliament Buildings. The location was chosen because it overlooked the beautiful Ottawa River and because the hill provided extra security. Today, the area surrounding Parliament Hill is a popular tourist attraction for visitors from all over the world.

It’s been more than 150 years since the construction of Canada’s first Parliament Buildings and many interesting events have taken place since. For students at language camp who are fascinated by history, there are many fun facts to learn about Canada’s Parliament Buildings this summer. Here are three facts about Canada’s Parliament Buildings your child will learn at ESL camp.

1. During Summer ESL Courses, Students Will Learn About the Parliament’s Secret Staircase

Secret rooms hidden behind bookcases aren’t just for the movies. The Parliament Buildings have a secret staircase of their own! During Prime Minister Alexander Mackenzie’s time in office, from 1873 to 1878, an addition was made to the Parliament Buildings. That addition included a brand new office, complete with a secret staircase for quietly escaping the building.

However, the staircase wasn’t built because Mackenzie was looking for a way to escape from enemies. At the time, the only way to get an appointment with the Prime Minister was to sit outside his office and wait for him to exit. Because of this, leaving the office could be a stressful and time-consuming experience for the Prime Minister. Mackenzie wanted an easy way to exit unnoticed by friends and lobbyists alike.

2. Students Will Learn About the Fire of 1916 at English Camp

Not even 50 years after Canada’s Parliament Buildings were built, a fire erupted on a cold night in February of 1916. The House of Commons had gathered to discuss the price of fish in the country when a fire broke out in the Reading Room of the Parliament Buildings. Canada’s Prime Minister at the time, Robert Borden, managed to escape without harm. Unfortunately, the Parliament Buildings didn’t fare so well and burned down. However, thanks to several quick-thinking individuals who slammed the fire lock doors shut just in time, the library was saved. Hundreds of books and many important pieces of Canada’s history were protected from harm and have survived to this day as a result.

During their summer ESL courses, students can still see the original structure of the library. It stands out from the rest of the building which was rebuilt after the fire.

3. Students at English Camp Will Learn that the Peace Tower Has 53 Bells

During English camp your child will have the exciting opportunity to visit the Parliament Buildings and see the Peace Tower. The Peace Tower was built and named in honour of the Canadian lives lost in World War I. At the top of the tower is a clock and bells. While many clock towers only have one bell, the Peace Tower has a grand total of 53.

Each bell is linked mechanically to a keyboard. Every bell has its own note and together they can play a range of songs like the Canadian National Anthem, classical music, and even some pop songs. Seeing (and hearing) the historic Peace Tower is a can’t-miss activity your child will get to enjoy at summer camp in Ottawa!

Do you want your child to learn English in Canada?

Contact Destination Canada today to learn more about ESL summer camp!