A bustling community once called Louisbourg home. Explore the remnants of a short but eventful period of history, including a reconstructed section of the French colonial town featuring costumed guides and richly furnished exhibits.
Notes from "Parks Canada #VisitLists for when you can’t get away"
Louisbourg: Enslavement and Freedom at the French Fortress In this episode, we find traces of the lives of enslaved people at the 18th-century French Fortress of Louisbourg in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia. By piecing together the unique story of Guinea-born Marie Marguerite Rose, we’ll learn about those who lived and died in enslavement…as well as the rise and fall (and rise again) of the Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site.
Amenities
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Family-Friendly -
Food and Beverages -
Guided Tour -
National Historic Site -
Parking -
Parkland -
Pet-Friendly -
Washrooms -
Wheelchair Access
Fun Facts
– This breathtaking site brings you back to French colonial life between 1713 and 1758. First home to the Mi’kmaw people, the 18th century brought French, Basque, German, English, Irish, Scottish, and African people to its shores. Immerse yourself in this diverse history as you explore a beautiful coastal landscape. Take in the looming fortifications, heritage gardens, and elegant homes of the reconstruction. Then, wander original 18th century ruins for a full experience of the past come to life.
– Fortress of Louisbourg is the largest historical reconstruction in North America. Depending on the season, most visitors plan to spend four hours here.
– Costumed animators, 18th century-style buildings, exhibits, and trails offer unforgettable experiences for all travellers
· Marie Marguerite Rose is the first free Black businesswoman on record in Canada’s history. She was enslaved in Guinea, Africa, and sold to a merchant in 18th century Louisbourg. After 19 years, she was released from slavery and opened an inn and tavern. Visit the plaque commemorating her story and a recreated inventory of her possessions.
· Two defining battles in Canada’s history took place here in 1745 and 1758, involving the French, English, Acadian, and Mi’kmaw peoples. Imagine yourself there as you smell the black powder during the daily French artillery demonstration which peaks with a booming cannon firing (July to mid-September).
· Louisbourg is the site of the first observatory in Canada. The dark skies over the Fortress make it the perfect place to stargaze 300 years later, when you spend the night through our Wake Up in the Past programs (June to mid-October).
Location
58 Wolfe Street, Fortress Of Louisbourg, NS, Canada
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