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The Stompin’ Tom Centre and Schoolhouse in Skinners Pond will involve the construction of a 4,000-square-foot facility, which will serve as the primary access point to the site.
The centre will operate as a multi-purpose performance space, designed to provide a unique songwriter’s circle experience, and equipped to host dinner theatre productions, corporate meetings and other special events.
The schoolhouse that Stompin’ Tom attended as a child will be renovated, showcasing his journey across Canada and the influence it had on his songwriting. A number of property upgrades and renovations to the Connors’ homestead will also be completed to complement the overall project.
The Honourable Gail Shea, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, on behalf of the Honourable Rob Moore, Minister of State (Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency), and the Honourable Wade MacLauchlan, Premier of Prince Edward Island, today announced government funding for the project.
Anne Arsenault, general manager of Tignish Initiatives, said a celebration will be held from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. on Monday, with the unveiling of the actual plans for the site set for 2 p.m. at the site in Skinner's Pond.
Tignish Initiatives is hoping to have the project completed by Canada Day next year.
The Government of Canada, through ACOA’s Innovative Communities Fund is supporting this project with a contribution of $1,253,200.
The Government of Prince Edward Island is supporting the project with a contribution of $441,250. This contribution includes previous funding to allow the project to move forward, as well as $150,000 to support the next phase of development.
Stompin’ Tom Connors spent his adolescent years in Skinners Pond with his adoptive parents. In 1951, at age 15, he set out to hitchhike across Canada, an adventure that would launch his music career.