“I am pleased to inform the public that these two important buildings have been designated as Heritage Places,” said Minister MacFadyen. “This designation will ensure that the heritage character of the buildings can be preserved for the benefit of all Islanders and visitors for generations to come.”

Formerly known as the Macphail Farm, the Sir Andrew Macphail Homestead in Orwell is the birthplace of Sir Andrew Macphail (1864-1938). A medical doctor, McGill University professor, scientist, social critic, author and World War I veteran, Sir Andrew Macphail kept close ties to his Island home. The Homestead's architectural style and design have remained largely unaltered since it was built in 1856. The building's strong connection to the community of Orwell, and its association with notable Islander and nationally designated person of historical significance, Sir Andrew Macphail, were factors in the designation of this property. The Homestead is managed by the Sir Andrew Macphail Foundation Board of Directors and is open to the public.

The Goff House in Woodville Mills, Kings County was built in 1841 by John Goff, son of Irish immigrant Fade Goff. The Goff family members were influential in their community and within Kings County, having served in the Legislative Assembly, Legislative Council, and by holding several government positions. The Goff family at one time had amassed an estate of more than 750 acres in Woodville Mills and operated saw, grist and carding mills creating employment and goods for many in the community. Today the Goff House is a private residence and bed and breakfast operating under the name Woodlands. Its architectural style and design are unique to Prince Edward Island and, after many years of renovations, the house has been painstakingly restored by its owners and is in excellent condition.

Designation is the higher of two levels of recognition under the Heritage Places Protection Act's Register of Heritage Places. The goal of designation is to preserve and protect the places that stand as the most important symbols of the history of Prince Edward Island.

Places proposed for recognition are reviewed by the Ministerial Heritage Places Advisory Board using criteria such as age, architectural style and historical associations. Places deemed to be of exceptional significance to the heritage of the Province may then be designated by the Minister of Community and Cultural Affairs. Designation provides ongoing legal protection to the heritage character of a property.

“These two properties are an important part of the history and culture of the communities of Orwell and Woodville Mills,” Minister MacFadyen added. “They have played a significant role in our Province's history and continue to demonstrate examples of fine architecture.”

With these two designations, the number of places designated under the provincial heritage legislation totals nineteen. Other designated heritage places include: Government House, The Customs House, J. Angus MacLean Building, Hon. George Coles Building, and Province House in Charlottetown; Green Park in Port Hill; the Atwell House in Clyde River; Kings County Court House; Alberton Courthouse Museum; D.E. Clarke's General Store in Orwell; Summerside Law Courts; the Doucet House in Rustico; Princetown United Church in Malpeque; Elmira Railway Museum, Orwell School; Orwell Church; and The Cannery at Basin Head Fisheries Museum.

For a list of recognized Prince Edward Island heritage places, as well as those listed from across the country, visit www.historicplaces.ca