Ontario presented the town of Honfleur, France with a commemorative plaque recognizing the historical, social, cultural and economic ties that link Ontario to France and marking 400 years of French presence in Ontario.
French explorer Samuel de Champlain embarked on his voyage to North America from the port of Honfleur in 1615 to explore the territory that would become Ontario.
Ontario Plaque in Parc Champlain in Honfleur, France. Photo: Government of Ontario.
Madeleine Meilleur, minister responsible for Francophone Affairs, said, “Ontario recognizes the significant contribution of francophones in helping Ontario grow into a unique and prosperous province. As part of the commemoration of 400 years of French presence, Ontario is pleased to offer a plaque to the Town of Honfleur in honour of this important transatlantic relationship.”
More than 610,000 francophones live in Ontario, creating the largest French-speaking community in Canada outside Quebec.
