Help us save the Court House, the “crown jewel” of the historic “Shiretown” community!
Thanks to the support of the local community and donors, the Albert County Historical Society has been able to preserve the history of the area, save original county buildings, and protect thousands of donated artefacts and documents. The public receives a look into the past when visiting the Albert County Museum & RB Bennett Centre. At the top of the 6-acre site stands the 1904 Albert County Court House, built on the original foundation of the 1845 Court House that burned in the devastating fire of 1903. This beautiful building is impressive, both inside and out, thanks to the talented architect, Watson Reid. He was the youngest of the three Reid Brothers, born in Harvey, Albert County, who became famous architects after forming the firm Reid Brothers Architects in the United States. Watson had returned to live in Albert County when he designed the Court House, as well as numerous other buildings.
The Albert County Historical Society now needs your financial support to preserve this iconic building for future generations. A major refurbishment project is required to save the pillars on the portico, address issues with the stone masonry foundation and other repairs to the exterior of the building.
A condition assessment report has been completed by the professional heritage engineering firm, Heritage Standing Inc., Fredericton, to prioritize the needed repairs by levels of urgency. The first urgent repair was the stabilization of the two end columns on the portico, which has now been completed by Timber Restoration Services. The finishing of the fluted exterior of the two columns and the column bases is now being done.
Both immediate concerns and future repairs will cost thousands of dollars. The Province of New Brunswick Heritage and Archaeological Branch is willing to contribute 50% of building repair costs based on the project budget, essentially matching funds that the ACHS is able to raise. Income tax receipts will be provided for donations of $20 or more towards this project. We ask for support of this fundraising effort to help us preserve the County’s rich heritage! Let’s work together to preserve this grand old Court House, a landmark heritage building!
“The Albert County Museum came into existence because a group of Albert County citizens knew the importance of preserving the history and artefacts of past generations”, expressed Dawne McLean, President of the Albert County Historical Society. “Without the Museum, valuable information of our past would have been erased....never to be appreciated by future generations.”
Donations can be made through the website: https://www.albertcountymuseum.com/donations. You can also support the project through the purchase of a special souvenir of our 60th Anniversary. The Albert County Historical Society is pleased to present this special package for purchase. Included for $60 is a custom designed ornament crafted by NB based Aitken Pewter, a membership to the Society which includes a 2023 season’s pass to the Museum, and an income tax receipt for $25. In the case of a family membership, the tax receipt is for $15. Additional ornaments are for sale for $25 in the Gift Shop.
Albert County Historical Society Inc., a federally recognized non-profit charitable organization, appreciates the ongoing support from individuals and families who are members and supporters, volunteers and donors. ACHS operates the museum by being partially funded through grant programs of Government of Canada and the Province of New Brunswick. Learn more by calling 506-734-2003, visit our website: www.albertcountymuseum.com , or email us at: info@albertcountymuseum.com