The Nova Scotia Museum Archaeology, in a recent move to enhance accessibility to its extensive archaeological collections, has successfully transferred approximately 500 banker’s boxes of valuable historical artifacts and materials. This significant relocation endeavor sought to address the limitations posed by an aging storage facility near Stellarton and ensure that these treasured items can be more readily accessed and studied.

The items, spanning various historical collections and large urban archaeology projects, have been relocated to the new rolling storage shelving facility in Uniacke. Simultaneously, pre-contact collections, which include artifacts from Bear River and the St. Margarets Bay area, have found their new home in the collections storage area at the Museum of Natural History.

This strategic move is expected to significantly expedite access to these valuable artifacts, particularly for review by the Mi’kmaq community. It also facilitates research efforts and opens up the possibility of incorporating these items into the ongoing renewal process of the Pjila’si gallery at the Museum of Natural History.

The Nova Scotia Museum Archaeology expressed its commitment to enhancing the preservation and accessibility of its archaeological collections. This transfer marks a pivotal step towards achieving this goal, enabling greater engagement with the rich history and cultural heritage of the region.

This project was made possible through the support of a grant from the Government of Canada, provided by Canadian Heritage. It underscores the commitment of governmental organizations to preserve and celebrate the diverse heritage and history of Nova Scotia.

For more information about the Archaeological Collecting in Nova Scotia and the Special Places Protection Act, please visit: https://cch.novascotia.ca/exploring-our-past/special-places.