The Charles Macdonald Concrete House Museum marks a special anniversary with historic renovations

From: Canadian Heritage

News release

CENTREVILLE, Nova Scotia, October 6, 2023

Investing in Canada’s cultural infrastructure improves access for all Canadians to arts and culture, contributes to the economy, and provides essential opportunities for artists and performers.

Today, Kody Blois, Member of Parliament (Kings–Hants), announced a contribution of $220,000 from the Legacy Fund component of the Building Communities through Arts and Heritage program to the “150th Anniversary of Charles Macdonald – Concrete House Restoration” project. He made this announcement on behalf of the Honourable Pascale St-Onge, Minister of Canadian Heritage, and was joined at the announcement by the Honourable Anita Anand, President of the Treasury Board.

This funding will facilitate extensive interior and exterior renovations, accessibility enhancements, and the expansion of cultural programming. Once the project is complete, the Museum will be fully equipped to safely showcase its collection, operate at full capacity, and attract a wider audience of both the general public and artists.

To enrich the visitor experience, the project includes the creation of ten educational signs—five indoors and five outdoors—in English, French, and Mi’kmaq. These signs will share the history of the Museum, Charles Macdonald’s contributions to the community, and the perspectives and contributions of local Indigenous, Acadian, and Black Loyalist communities.

Exploring historic sites like this one helps us grasp how the innovators and artists of our past have influenced our present and will guide our future, ensuring the protection of our cultural heritage for generations to come. 

Quotes

“The unique art, architecture, and heritage of this site make it a truly memorable place for visitors. As a historic and free museum with a unique story to tell, it is a touchstone for nearby communities to discover more about the life and times of Charles Macdonald. Our government is proud to be a partner in supporting the Museum in delivering new programming, renovations, and repairs as it celebrates the 150th anniversary of Macdonald’s birth, overcomes challenges, and works to modernize itself so that it can continue long into the future.”

—The Honourable Pascale St-Onge, Minister of Canadian Heritage

“Having grown up here in Kentville, I am thrilled to see our government supporting this restoration project. This project will help recruit local volunteers, attract tourism, provide opportunities for artists, and support the community, while creating good jobs and supporting the local heritage industry.”

—The Honourable Anita Anand, President of the Treasury Board

“The Charles Macdonald House Museum is an important landmark in our community. The building is rich in history and is culturally significant for the Annapolis Valley. I am pleased to see our government investing to maintain the historic building and I want to thank the volunteer board for all their work and advocacy.”

—Kody Blois, Member of Parliament (Kings—Hants)

Quick facts

  • The Charles Macdonald House of Centreville Society is a non-profit arts and heritage organization located in Centreville, Nova Scotia. The Charles Macdonald Concrete House served as the location of Macdonald’s cement and brick company, as well as his residence, from 1910 to 1967. It was donated to the community of Centreville in 1967 following his death. The property was gifted to the Charles Macdonald House of Centreville Society in 1996 and is now operated as a provincial museum and art gallery.

  • The Legacy Fund component of the Building Communities through Arts and Heritage program provides financial support for community-initiated capital projects that are linked to the commemoration of a significant local historical event or personality. 

  • Funding is spread over two fiscal years: $120,000 in 2023–24 and $100,000 in 2024–25.

Associated links

Contacts

For more information (media only), please contact:

Ariane Joazard-Bélizaire
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage
ariane.joazard-belizaire@pch.gc.ca

Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
1-819-994-9101
1-866-569-6155
media@pch.gc.ca

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