Miramichi News: Parks Canada announces contribution for historical research at Beaubears Island

MIRAMICHI- Nov 29, 2011 (MARKETWIRE via COMTEX) -- On behalf of the Honourable Peter Kent, Canada's Environment Minister and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, Ms. Tilly O'Neill-Gordon, Member of Parliament for Miramichi, today announced that the Government of Canada will be investing in historical research at Boishebert National Historic Site.

"Through Parks Canada's National Historic Sites Cost-Sharing Program, the Government of Canada will be contributing up to $14,900 to assist with historical research on Wilson's Point," said Ms. O'Neill-Gordon. "Thanks to this project, the history of this site will be better understood and the state of commemorative integrity of the site will improve."

Wilson's Point, part of the Boishebert National Historic Site, is situated on the Miramichi River in New Brunswick and is a cultural landscape with archaeological evidence of an 18th century Acadian refugee camp. From 1756 to 1760, the Acadians, under the leadership of Charles Deschamps de Boishebert, sought refuge from deportation on Wilson's Point (then known as Camp d'Esperance) and Beaubears Island. Boishebert was designated a national historic site because of its connection to an important chapter of the Acadian experience in the Maritime Provinces. The area also has a strong Mi'kmaq connection and Wilson's Point in particular reflects subsequent Scottish settlement.

"One of our Government's major objectives is to inspire Canadians to develop strong and meaningful connections with Canada's national treasures," said Minister Kent. "Our national historic sites are vital to our history, our identity as Canadians, and our tourism industry. By investing in them and by building lasting relationships with the community groups that operate them, we ensure that they will continue to help support local economies and encourage more Canadians to explore and discover our national heritage."

"We are really excited to expand our historical knowledge of events that took place at Wilson`s Point, which is an important part of the Boishebert National Historic Site," said Michael Mersereau, President of Friends of Beaubears Inc. "This will be the first phase of an eventual archaeological research project that will increase our visitors' connection to and understanding of this important moment in Canadian history."

The Cost-Sharing Program reflects Parks Canada's dedication to protect Canada's heritage through funding towards the conservation of our national historic sites. In this centennial year, Parks Canada is pleased to continue its efforts to ensure that Canada's historic and natural heritage is protected for the enjoyment, education and appreciation of all Canadians, today and in the future.

For additional information, please see the accompanying backgrounder at www.parkscanada.gc.ca under Media Room.