In the rural New Brunswick town called Boiestown lies the Woodmen’s Museum. The museum stands as a testament to the region’s rich logging history. Established in 1979, it has been a local tourist attraction but has seen minimal renovations since its inception. Thankfully, on October 5th, 2023, the museum received a much-needed financial boost.
Government Backing for Essential Upgrades
The museum secured funding from both Provincial and Federal sources, with the Honorable Réjean Savoie contributing $92,450 from the Province and the Honorable Gudie Hutchings offering $115,563 from the Federal government. This funding will be directed towards essential upgrades, including a drain tile, culvert replacement, and improvements to the parking lot.
When asked about this funding, the Executive director at the Central New Brunswick Woodmen’s Museum, Christine Jean, stated, “As a rural museum, securing adequate funding is a continuous challenge, particularly as we face an overwhelming need for extensive repairs.”
She continued, “New Brunswick’s lumbering history is deep-rooted, along with our connection to nature through education. By investing in our museum today, we aim to ensure that its narratives and lessons resonate with future generations.”
Government Support for Heritage Preservation
The Honorable Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA (Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency), recognized the Woodmen’s Museum plays in preserving local history stating, “The forestry industry helped build New Brunswick, and the Woodmen’s Museum plays a vital role in preserving this chapter of the province’s heritage. These improvements mean the museum will be able to preserve this history for the next generation, drive local tourism, and help rural communities thrive and flourish.”
Similarly, Mike Dawson, MLA for southwest Miramichi – Bay du vin representing the Honourable Réjean Savoie, also the Minister responsible for the Regional Development Corporation, echoed that sentiment, stating, “The Woodmen’s Museum tells the story of our logging industry, which is an important part of the province’s history and an important part of our community.” Dawson continued, “Our government is pleased to support upgrades that will ensure that the museum remains a key tourism attraction for years to come.”
Community Enthusiasm and Appreciation
Local resident and second-year mechanical engineering student, Brody Munn, shared his excitement about the news. “There is a major lack of funding in the Boiestown area in general, and the museum it’s an important place to the community,” he said.
Not only does it share local history for the area, but it also works as a gathering place for the community. When asked about this Munn stated his enthusiasm on the matter, “There’s many benefit breakfasts hosted there and fundraisers and just fundraiser breakfasts in general for local events and activities. And lots of people come together there to raise money for such things.”
For more information about the Woodmen’s Museum visit their website at Woodmen’s Museum Experience History (woodmensmuseum.com).
