Statues commissioned for Timmins prospectors

Three prospectors of historical significance in Ontario — John “Jack” Wilson, Sandy McIntyre and Benny Hollinger — will each be honoured with 7-ft. bronze statues commissioned by the Porcupine Prospectors and Developers Association (PPDA).

Gold discoveries made by the three men launched one of the biggest gold rushes in history, according to the PPDA, and spurred the founding of Timmins in 1912. A century later, Timmins is still known at “a city with a heart of gold.”

“In January 2010, these founders of the Porcupine camp were inducted

into the prestigious Canadian Mining Hall of Fame. In light of that honour, and with our city’s 100th anniversary coming up in 2012, we thought that a bronze monument would be an enduring tribute to them, and to the city’s heritage,” said PPDA president Dean Rogers, in a press release.

“The city of Timmins and the 100th Anniversary Committee have approved this legacy project, and graciously pledged in-kind support,” he added.

“This memorial tribute will not only acknowledge our pioneer past, but will be a symbol of our proud Timmins heritage for generations to come,” said Timmins Mayor Tom Laughren in a statement.

The bronze sculptures will be mounted on granite bases, and located at a municipally-owned, accessible site to be announced at a later date; the unveiling ceremony is planned for the August 2012 Civic Holiday weekend.

The commissioned artist is Tyler Fauvelle, a northern Ontario sculptor who specializes in work inspired by the miners, prospectors and other historical figures.

Including “in-kind” donations of material, equipment and labour, the project is valued at about $200,000. The PPDA has applied for government funding as part of its fundraising plan, and is counting on the support of the mining community, business, industry, other community partners, and the citizens of Timmins to reach its objective.