Champlain’s Dream at the Canadian Embassy

Last week a collection of priceless notebooks, maps and documents were unveiled at the Embassy of Canada's Champlain's Dream exhibition opening. I had the pleasure of attending the private event which started with a cocktail reception on the Embassy's upper level, prior to the viewing of the exhibition. The Embassy, located at 501 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, has one of the most amazing views of DC that I've ever seen, with an outdoor terrace that wraps around most of the front of the building.

After a brief speaking program guests were directed down to the exhibition which is showcased in the Embassy's lower level art gallery. The exhibition contained an eye opening collection of documents and images that work to tell the story of the early exploration of what is now Canada and New England. Samuel de Champlain, a renown French explorer credited with opening North America to French commerce. His exploration of large regions of the NE went as far south as New York State and Vermont, where he mapped what is now known as Lake Champlain. (for more on Champlain and the exhibition CLICK HERE.) I was surprise by the incredible accuracy of the early renderings of the region. The evening ended with a dessert reception.

The exhibition is on display until January 2, 2009 in the Embassy of Canada Art Gallery. Located at 501 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, the gallery is free and open to the public Monday through Friday from 9 AM until 5 PM.

Go on...get out there and get some culture,

Guru