February 16 to 22 marks Heritage Week, and the Ermatinger Clergue National Historic Site (ECNHS) is marking the occasion with the launch of its first dedicated website, designed to make planning a visit and exploring the site’s history easier and more accessible.
“Whether you’re planning a visit or simply curious about history, everything you need is now in one place,” said Kathy Fisher, Curator of the ECNHS. “This new website modernizes the visitor experience through digital innovation while improving accessibility, engagement, and visitor services.”
Built to current web standards and best practices, the website offers a range of features, including the ability to:
- Book daily admissions and special events online
- Learn more about the site’s historic buildings and facilities
- Discover heritage culinary experiences
- Explore digital artifacts connected to local history and culture
- Find information on educational programs and group tour options
- Learn how to support the preservation of the site’s historic buildings
- Launch of a gift shop e-commerce store (coming soon)
The website was developed through the Digital Tourism Growth Project, funded by the Federal Economic Development Agency of Northern Ontario (FEDNOR). Development was led by local digital media and marketing agency Cavera Inc., which worked closely with City staff to design a user-friendly platform tailored to the visitor’s experience.
In addition to the website launch, the project also features the installation of three interactive touchscreen kiosks that offer insights into the site’s history and provide virtual tours of areas not always physically accessible, including the basement and upper floor of the Old Stone House and the residential level of the Clergue Blockhouse.
Together, these digital enhancements improve access to information, support self-guided learning, expand how visitors engage with the site, and aid in long-term sustainability and future initiatives.
The new website is now live at www.ecnhs.com. Community members are invited to explore the site and share feedback by emailing old.stone.house@cityssm.on.ca.