The National Trust Mourns the Passing of its First Chair, Hartland MacDougall

The National Trust Mourns the Passing of its First Chair,
Hartland MacDougall

Ottawa, Ont., September 23, 2014 – Heritage Canada The National Trust is saddened by the loss of Hartland Molson MacDougall C.V.O., O.C., its founding Chair and the first recipient of its Gabrielle Léger Medal for Lifetime Achievement in Heritage Conservation.

“Mr. MacDougall set an ambitious course for the organization and did much to build its profile, credibility and relevance,” said executive director Natalie Bull.  “Members from the early days remember his enthusiasm and commitment fondly. The last time we spoke, he expressed great pleasure that the organization had finally seized the name National Trust – something that was not legally possible in 1973. The National Trust, and indeed culture and heritage in Canada, owe Mr. MacDougall a great debt of gratitude.”

Mr. MacDougall had a long and impressive career in the financial sector, which included Past Director and Vice-Chair of the Bank of Montreal; Chair, Royal Trustco Ltd.; and Director and Deputy Chair, London Insurance Group. It was an auspicious beginning when in 1973 Mr. MacDougall, with his impeccable credentials, agreed to take on the leadership of the organization. It was a role that he fulfilled with dedication for five productive years, helping to set the course for the future of the National Trust in Canada. Last year, Mr. MacDougall congratulated the organization on its 40th anniversary, writing that it was “with pride” that he saw what the organization had achieved in such a short time.

In 1978, in recognition of his commitment to the heritage of his community and country, he became the inaugural recipient of the prestigious Gabrielle Léger Medal for Lifetime Achievement.

Natalie Bull
Executive Director
nbull@heritagecanada.org
613-237-1066 ex. 222