Government of Canada Celebrates the National Historic Significance of Beaubassin and the official opening of view park at Beaubassin and Fort Lawrence National Historic Sites
News Release
September 16, 2017 Fort Lawrence, Nova Scotia Parks Canada
Canada’s national parks, historic sites, and marine conservation areas enable Canadians to experience their rich and varied history in a special way. To celebrate the 150th anniversary of Confederation in 2017, the Government of Canada invites Canadians to experience nature and learn more about our history.
Bill Casey, Member of Parliament for Cumberland—Colchester, on behalf of the Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, Catherine McKenna, today commemorated the importance of Beaubassin as a place of national historic significance and officially opened the view park at Beaubassin and Fort Lawrence National Historic Sites. A special ceremony was held at the Beaubassin and Fort Lawrence National Historic Sites with members of the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada and members of the community.
The Government of Canada is committed to connecting Canadians to the significant people, places, and events that contributed to our country’s diverse heritage. Beaubassin was a major Acadian settlement in the Chignecto Isthmus area, situated within the Mi’kmaw territory (Sikniktuk). The site played an important part in the 17th and 18th century territorial disputes between the British and the French.
The new view park at Beaubassin – Fort Lawrence will highlight an important piece of our country’s history. It will help visitors to admire the historic landscapes and connect with its heritage and stories while adding another layer to the experience available at the nearby Fort Beauséjour – Fort Cumberland.
Canada’s national parks and national historic sites enable Canadians to experience their heritage in a special way and will play a big part in the celebration of Canada 150.
This year also marks the centennial of national historic sites and Parks Canada invites Canadians to discover and be inspired by the stories of the people, places, and events that shaped the Canada of today. Take advantage of free admission to national historic sites in 2017, and discover truly Canadian places and stories with Parks Canada.
Quotes
“The Government of Canada is pleased to commemorate the national historic significance of Beaubassin as a national historic site. The opening of the new view park will give visitors a special experience and present the important natural and cultural treasures the region has to offer. As we celebrate the 150th anniversary of Confederation, I encourage all Canadians to take this opportunity to learn more about Beaubassin as well the important role the Chignecto area played in our country's history.”
Bill Casey,
Member of Parliament Cumberland—Colchester
Quick Facts
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The Mi’kmaq and Acadians co-existed in Beaubassin for almost a century. The village and the Chignecto area then became a battleground for conflicts between France and Britain, causing violence and upheaval.
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The view park at Beaubassin and Fort Lawrence National Historic Sites includes a shelter, interpretive panels, benches, and trails, allowing visitors to appreciate the landscape and learn more about the importance of this historic place.
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Created in 1919, the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada advises the Minister of Environment and Climate Change regarding the national historic significance of places, people, and events that have marked Canada’s history.
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Contacts
Roxanne Richard
Partnering, Engagement and Communications Officer
Northern New Brunswick Field Unit
Parks Canada
roxanne.richard@pc.gc.ca
506-851-4661
Media Relations
Parks Canada Agency
855-862-1812
pc.media@pc.gc.ca