A new exhibition, “Digging into the Past: An Archaeological Discovery in Malpeque Bay,” provides a unique glimpse into Acadian history on Prince Edward Island, says Minister responsible for Acadian and Francophone Affairs and Archaeology, Premier Robert Ghiz.
The exhibition at the Acadian Museum in Miscouche features the results of archaeological investigations conducted by Provincial Archaeologist, Dr. Helen Kristmanson, between 2008 and 2011 at Pointe-aux-Vieux, a pre-Deportation Acadian site on Malpeque Bay, near Port Hill. Excavations uncovered a remnant homestead containing thousands of personal belongings and objects associated with an Acadian family that settled in Malpeque Bay in the early to mid-18th century. The exhibition contains artifacts, interpretive panels, and interactive stations to immerse visitors in this period of Island history.
“Prince Edward Island has a long human history spanning nearly 12,000 years,” said Premier Ghiz. “This is the Island’s first archaeological exhibit, and it is wonderful to see this chapter of Acadian history celebrated in this vibrant and interactive display.”
“Digging into the Past” is produced as part of PEI 2014’s sesquicentennial celebrations and is curated by Dr. Helen Kristmanson, Provincial Director of Aboriginal Affairs and Archaeology. The exhibition was designed and produced by Skyline Atlantic (Moncton, NB), Form: Media (Dartmouth, NS), and Technomedia (Charlottetown, PEI).
The exhibition is sponsored by P.E.I. Museum and Heritage Foundation with the collaboration of the Association of the Acadian Museum. Funding was provided by PEI 2014 Inc., with contributions by Canadian Heritage, PEI Museum and Heritage Foundation and donations by several generous Islanders.
“This exhibition gives Islanders and visitors alike a glimpse of what life was like for early Acadian settlers on Prince Edward Island,” said Minister Henderson. “It’s projects like this one that will help build a lasting cultural legacy stemming from the 2014 celebrations.”
The exhibition is on display until January 2015. Located in Miscouche, the Acadian Museum is open year-round. For July and August, it is open daily from 9:30 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. and beginning in September will be open Monday to Friday 9:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. and Sundays 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.