Canadian Mining Hall of Fame facts for kids
The Canadian Mining Hall of Fame is a special place that celebrates the amazing people who have made a big difference in Canada's mining industry. It was started in 1988 by Maurice R. Brown. This Hall of Fame honors those who found new mines or helped build the industry in Canada. In 2023, there were 203 members.
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Where You Can Find the Hall of Fame
The Canadian Mining Hall of Fame has several places where you can learn about its members. Some are physical exhibits, and others are virtual.
Toronto Locations
The original Hall of Fame is located at the University of Toronto. You can find it on the ground floor of the old Mining Building. Here, you'll see special plaques made of polished Canadian granite. Each plaque has a photo and a description of the people who became members between 1989 and 2008.
The Royal Ontario Museum also has an interactive exhibit about the Hall of Fame. It's on the second floor, inside the Teck Suite of Galleries.
Elliot Lake Exhibit
In Elliot Lake, the Mining Museum at the Lester B. Pearson Civic Centre features a virtual exhibit of the Hall of Fame. This means you can explore it using digital displays.
Ottawa Exhibit
The Canadian Museum of Nature in Ottawa opened its virtual exhibit of the Hall of Fame in 2012. It's part of the Vale Earth Gallery.
British Columbia Exhibit
The Britannia Mine Museum, which is at the site of a former copper mine, also has a virtual exhibit of the Hall of Fame.
How People Become Members
To become a member of the Canadian Mining Hall of Fame, a person must have done something truly outstanding for Canada's minerals industry during their lifetime. Usually, they need to be retired and at least 65 years old.
People can be nominated by other individuals, companies, or organizations that are connected to the Hall of Fame.
What Makes Someone a Hall of Famer?
People are chosen for their achievements in different areas:
- Finding New Mines: This includes discovering a very large mineral deposit or many important deposits. It also recognizes those who found new ways to explore for minerals or overcame big challenges to make a discovery.
- Building Companies: Honoring those who created or grew successful mining companies.
- Technical Contributions: This means developing new technologies or methods that greatly improved the mining industry. It also includes providing important scientific knowledge about geology.
- Supporting the Industry: Recognizing people who helped the industry from outside, like through education, creating helpful policies, or improving communication.
- Mining and Society: Celebrating those who did an excellent job connecting the goals of the mining industry with what's good for Canadian society.
