How about a trip to the South West tip of Nova Scotia? There, you will find Nova Scotia’s newest museum, The Black Loyalist Heritage Centre which tells the story of the world’s largest free African population outside of Africa, in the late 18th century. In addition to the Centre, you can also visit historic buildings and the National Monument commemorating the Black Loyalist Landing in Birchtown in 1783. The site which is located on a stunning property overlooking Shelburne Harbour, encourages visitors to experience a sense of peacefulness, knowing they are walking in the footsteps of the courageous Black Loyalists.
Do you have African heritage? Trace your family connections in the “Book of Negroes”, a document containing the names of all Black Loyalists who escaped to Canada after the American War of Independence, and the inspiration for the eponymous award-winning book by Canadian author, Lawrence Hill.
Did you know that the CBC miniseries The Book of Negroes was filmed in Nova Scotia? The series has recently been nominated for Best TV or Limited Series in the Canadian Golden Screen Awards.
Black Loyalist Heritage Centre:
Hours: Open Seasonally. Private tours are available off-season. Phone to book.
Where: 119 Old Birchtown Road, Site 10, Mod 3, Comp 14, Shelburne, NS B0T1W0
Directions: Exit 27 Trans Canada HWY 103
Phone: 902-875-1310
Email: Blackloyalist@blackloyalist.com
Website: blackloyalist.novascotia.ca
Facebook: www.facebook.com/BlackLoyalistHeritageCentre
