C aSnma adlilaBnuBs ui nsei ns es sAswAawr da rsd2s022032|42 |92 9 Committed to sharing its history with as many diverse audiences as possible, the Diefenbunker has been working to deliver a more inclusive and accessible visitor experience. For example, in the last two years, the museum has launched two new permanent exhibitions focused on Inuit and other underrepresented stories from Canada’s Cold War history. It has also updated its virtual tour to be ADA-compliant, as well as added a second Indigenous language to its free audio guide. Other developments include, amongst others, a new stair lift device, automatic doors at the main entrances and exits, additional safety ramps and rails, and a new HVAC system to improve air quality. Having recently celebrated its 25th anniversary as a museum and national historic site, the Diefenbunker is immensely proud of how far it has come since it was started by a small group of dedicated volunteers with a vision. “From these humble beginnings, we have journeyed through years of growth and successes, carefully marshalling our resources to preserve this country’s most significant Cold War artifact and to follow our mission to reveal and relate a historical moment of crisis to today’s troubled world,” explains Jordan. Now, the Diefenbunker stands as a beacon of resilience and sustainability, at the forefront the museum industry with its innovative site preservation initiatives, immersive educational platform, diverse revenue streams, and broad range of community collaborations. For its outstanding work, the museum has been named Heritage Visitor Attraction of the Year, Eastern Canada, in the Canadian Business Awards 2024. With yet another prestigious title under its belt, the Diefenbunker doubtlessly looks towards a bright future as it continues to share important lessons with future generations. Contact Details Contact: [email protected] Company: Diefenbunker: Canada’s Cold War Museum Web Address: diefenbunker.ca In 1959, the Diefenbunker was commissioned by Prime Minister John Diefenbaker during the Cold War in response to the growing geopolitical tensions. In the event of a nuclear attack, the bunker would have house key political figures and members of the military, allowing the government to operate safely underground for 30 days to assist with the governance and rebuilding of the country. Completed in 1961, the Diefenbunker remained in continuous operation until it was decommissioned in 1994. As the site of some of Canada’s most top-secret communications throughout the Cold War, it was given national historic site status. Following this, the structure was unoccupied until the museum was opened by local volunteers in 1998. Today, the Diefenbunker operates an independent museum and not-for-profit, charitable organisation that offers awardwinning museum tours, programmes, exhibitions, special events, and escape rooms. Located in the country’s capital city, the museum has become a popular destination for tourists, inviting thousands of visitors each year from all around the world to descend 75 feet underground into history. The Diefenbunker is proud to display many Canadian Cold War artifacts that tell stories of national and international importance. Jordan Vetter, the museum’s Marketing and Communications Manager, comments, “While it fortunately never had to be used for its intended purpose, today the building survives as a powerful reminder of our world on the edge of nuclear war and tells the story of Canada’s extraordinary efforts to safeguard our society in the face of potential catastrophe.” In today’s global climate, these stories are becoming increasingly relevant. The Diefenbunker serves as an important platform for people to engage in meaningful conversations, collaborations, and connections. Visitors can explore educational exhibitions and connect with important history as they are transported back in time to immerse themselves in the realities of the Cold War. They learn about Canada’s role in this critical period through historic artifacts, recreated spaces, and interactive interpretive experiences. Jordan shares, “We value the history that happened here, and we value the people, past and present, who continue to preserve and interpret it. We offer an important platform for understanding our past, and for present and future generations to strive to build a more peaceful future.” Situated on the outskirts of Ottawa, the Diefenbunker is Canada’s most significant surviving Cold War artifact. Having once operated as the country’s central communications headquarters, this impressive four-storey underground facility is now an immersive museum and national historic site, offering its visitors unforgettable educational experiences. Here, we dive deeper into the museum’s history and what it has to offer today. Heritage Visitor Attraction of the Year 2024 - Eastern Canada
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