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8 Historical Escapes in the Bay of Fundy & Annapolis Valley

The Bay of Fundy and Annapolis Valley region is home to some of the province’s earliest recorded history, from the fossils of prehistoric creatures that roamed these lands to the legends of the Mi’kmaq and European settlers. History buffs will have no shortage of places to explore and stories to share when they arrive back home. Here are eight places to help with your Bay of Fundy & Annapolis Valley history lesson.

Joggins Fossil Cliffs UNESCO World Heritage Site, Joggins

How’s this for history? At Joggins Fossil Cliffs, exposed layers of rock have recorded the world’s most complete fossil record of life 300 million years ago. Dense, lush forests once covered this area and, although, maybe hard to believe now, are preserved in stone in the sea cliffs at Joggins. Ask about a behind-the-scenes tour when you visit.

Joggins Fossil Cliffs UNESCO World Heritage Site
Joggins Fossil Cliffs UNESCO World Heritage Site

Port-Royal National Historic Site, Port Royal

Raise a toast to Samuel de Champlain and his hardy crew! On this site in 1605, they built the original Port Royal Habitation and founded North America’s first social club, the Order of Good Cheer, to help combat the hardships of winter. The Order of Good Cheer is both a stop on the Good Cheer Trail and inspiration for its name.

Port-Royal National Historic Site
Port-Royal National Historic Site

Fort Anne National Historic Site, Annapolis Royal

A meeting place for cultures and a focal point for historic power struggles and treaty negotiations, Fort Anne played a key role in the forces and events that shaped this community, province, and nation.

Fort Anne National Historic Site
Fort Anne National Historic Site

Millbrook Cultural and Heritage Centre, Millbrook/Truro

Follow the giant roadside statue of Kluscap as he points the way to an innovative multimedia presentation of Mi’kmaw heritage and legends. At Millbrook Cultural and Heritage Centre you’ll enjoy the extensive displays of ancient artifacts and traditional crafts. Try speaking a few Mi’kmaw words.

Springhill Miners’ Museum, Springhill

Tour the depths of a coal mine at the Springhill Miners’ Museum, famous in song and legend, with a knowledgeable guide, and see unique artifacts depicting the town’s remarkable industrial heritage.

Springhill Miners Museum

Fundy Geological Museum, Parrsboro

From dinosaurs that roamed the earth millions of years ago to gigantic bug-like creatures, enjoy the interactive displays throughout the Fundy Geological Museum’s galleries as you learn about half a billion years of geological history and these incredible creatures who once called our planet home. Get hands on with a guided beach tour accompanied by an expert museum guide.

Fundy Geological Museum
Fundy Geological Museum

Colchester Historeum, Truro

Exhibits focus on the social history of Colchester County; the museum’s genealogical resources include family and community histories, photographs, and archival papers.

Age of Sail Heritage Centre, Port Greville

This family-oriented Age of Sail Heritage Centre depicts the rich heritage of the Minas Basin timber and shipbuilding industries within a restored Methodist church, blacksmith shop, and historical lighthouse.

Age of Sail Heritage Centre
Age of Sail Heritage Centre

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