MIRAMICHI (GNB) – A one-year research project is underway to catalogue the unique heritage of the Miramichi region, including its traditions, practices and customs.
This project will involve reviving local stories and examining their connections with others from across Canada and beyond.
“The stories told, songs sung, foods eaten, and languages spoken within a community hold incredible cultural value, yet this value is often forgotten,” said Tourism, Heritage and Culture Minister Tammy Scott-Wallace. “This research project, in partnership with Friends of Beaubears Island, will be an important first step in preserving the Miramichi region’s intangible heritage, allowing future generations to appreciate their origins.”
Shawn McCarthy, a researcher with Friends of Beaubears Island, will be leading this work and speaking with community members around the region, from Boiestown, Wayerton, Tabusintac, Kouchibouguac, Rogersville and points in between.
“Friends of Beaubears Island Inc. has endeavoured over the past two decades to share stories that connect our area through the lens of Beaubears Island and its two national historic sites,” said Racheal Bell, the group’s board chair. “We are excited to see what this project and these new partnerships bring to light.”
The project will examine local knowledge, actions and personalities to gain more perspective on how people migrated to the region over many generations.
“This work will attempt to understand the global reach of our communities and reforge centuries-old bonds with our predecessors from around the world,” said Scott-Wallace.
“This research will serve as a foundation for the development of future tourism experiences,” said Environment and Climate Change Minister Gary Crossman, who is also minister responsible for the Regional Development Corporation. “Support for regional projects like this is an important part of our government’s priority to build vibrant and sustainable communities.”
The provincial government is contributing $170,000 toward the project through the Regional Development Corporation.
21-10-21