Sudbury

Federal government designates birth of Dionne quints historically significant

The federal government has deemed the birth of the Dionne Quintuplets as an event of national historical significance. The story of the northern Ontario sisters is among 12 events, people or places given the designation Tuesday.

Birth of Dionne quints among 12 events, people or places of historical importance to Canada

CENTER OF ATTENTION--To the world, the birth on May 28, 1934 of quintuplets to Elzire and Oliva Dionne of Callander, Ontario, was a miracle, an event so incredible few believed the initial news report flashed around the globe. Once the birth was confirmed however, the quintuplets became one of the most sensational news events in history. The five baby girls are shown during a photo session during their first year. (Canadian Press)

The federal government has deemed the birth of the Dionne Quintuplets an event of national historical significance.

The story of the northern Ontario sisters is among 12 events, people or places given the designation Tuesday.

The government says the birth and survival of "five identical, premature and undersized" babies was an unprecedented event that drew international attention.

The quintuplets remain a source of fascination in some quarters, with one grass-roots group mounting a year-long campaign to preserve the sisters' childhood home in North Bay, Ont.

The campaign succeeded, and the log cabin was successfully relocated to the North Bay waterfront in November of last year.

Family spokesman Carlo Tarini says the museum will likely open its doors in July or August.