About Us

Our History


Founded in 1979, The Northumberland Fisheries Museum is a registered charity and non-for-profit organization which strives to represent the rich heritage and culture of the fishing industry and its people, who have shaped the communities along the Northumberland Strait.

Our goal is to operate as a community museum that collects, interprets, and displays the material and oral culture of the Northumberland Strait fishery. We strive to do this by developing exhibitions, displays, and events that help to educate folks on the history of the strait and maintain the legacy of the fishing industry.

We also strive to act as a community hub and a place where anyone and everyone can share a pleasant and fulfilling experience by ensuring we are a welcoming, diverse, and inclusive space where all can be comfortable.

We truly believe that we are “Where the salt of the sea, meets the salt of the earth.”

Scallop shucking 1967 Jean ,Edna, and George Wright in Cape John, from the Beulah Jane Wright Collection

1950 newspaper clipping, Queen of the Lobster Carnival contestants

Boats docked in Cape John, 1955, getting ready to go set traps

Supporters, Accredition & Awards

The Northumberland Fisheries Museum is a proud member of the Association of Nova Scotia Museums, and we have the great pleasure of being designated as an Accredited Museum, a public acknowledgement of excellence in Nova Scotia museums.

Our work at the Northumberland Fisheries Museum is made possible with support from the Department of Communities, Culture & Heritage.

Proud winner of the 2017 Chief Experience Opportunity presented by Destination Eastern & Northumberland Shores