Fundy National Park of Canada

The Government of Canada celebrates the rich cultural heritage of former residents of Fundy National Park

Alma, New Brunswick, July 16, 2011 – Today, several hundred people gathered for a giant family picnic at Fundy National Park to celebrate Parks Day. The Honourable Rob Moore, Member of Parliament for Fundy Royal attended the event on behalf of the Honourable Peter Kent, Canada's Environment Minister and Minister responsible for Parks Canada. Participants also marked the 100th anniversary of Parks Canada and honoured the rich cultural heritage of the national park.

“This event is such a great way to bring together a community of people that once lived in the area now known as Fundy National Park,” said Mr. Moore. “Today, as we are gathered here at my favourite national park, we are marking not only Parks Day but we are also celebrating the important human history of the area.”

The Cultural History Resource Mapping Project started in 2010 in Fundy National Park will record where early homesteads in the park were located. New sections of map will be shown at the picnic this year. Residents of the area that is now Fundy National Park and their descendants are important resources for filling in the gaps and are significant contributors to this project.

This is an exciting year for Parks Canada as it marks its 100th anniversary – the world’s first national park service. Parks Canada now manages one of the most extensive networks of protected national heritage places in the world, a growing collection of 167 national historic sites, 42 national parks and 4 national marine conservation areas.

“I encourage Canadians to take part in the various celebrations associated with Parks Canada’s centenary taking place at Fundy National Park, across New Brunswick and Canada,” said Minister Kent. “I hope you will get out and explore our great national historic sites and national parks – they are a great way to enjoy and learn more about our country.”

Fundy National Park was established in 1948 and officially opened its doors to the public in 1950. Its dramatic landscapes are linked to the Bay of Fundy and its world famous tides. It is part of a network of national parks, national historic sites and national marine conservation areas that is recognized as one of the finest and most extensive in the world. Through this nation-wide network of protected areas, Parks Canada works to ensure Canada's cultural and natural heritage are presented and protected for the enjoyment, education and appreciation of all Canadians, today and in the future.