Visitor Centre / Museum

The Visitor Centre / Museum is a Classified Federal Heritage building because of its historical associations, and its architectural and environmental values.

Historical Value:

The Visitor Centre / Museum is a very good example of a structure built to present and commemorate Canadian history, particularly the theme of French-British conflict. Additionally, the museum is one of the very best examples of the type of project implemented with funds made available by the Public Works Construction Act of 1934 which was designed to provide relief in the form of spending on Public Works. The museum is associated with Dr. John Clarence Webster was a historian and chairman of the Historic Sites and Monuments Board from 1945-50 and under Dr. Webster’s direction, the museum became a repository for material related not only to Fort Beauséjour, but also of regional civilian life.

Architectural Value:

The Visitor Centre / Museum is a very good example a building derived from simplified Chateauesque design principles and influenced by French vernacular architecture as exemplified by the flared eaves. The building’s design is functionally good, the Visitor Centre/Museum’s value resides in its simplified Chateauesque design, symmetrical massing, and the very good quality of its materials and craftsmanship.

Environmental Value:

Prominent and highly visible, the building is the dominant structure in Fort Beauséjour National Park and reinforces the present character of the area. It is a familiar landmark to both residents and to visiting tourists. The Beauséjour Museum is situated within a historically important area of the spur built on by the British after 1755.

Sources:

Margaret Coleman, Visitor Centre/Museum, Fort Beauséjour National Historic Park, Aulac, New Brunswick. Federal Heritage Buildings Review Office Report 90-069.

Visitor Centre / Museum, Fort Beauséjour National Historic Park, Aulac, N.B. Heritage Character Statement 90-069