Pesikitk Tapestry
The Threads of History in West Hants
The tapestry of history is woven of many threads
The land surrounding Fort Edward was called Pesikitk long before colonists renamed it Windsor. Many cultural groups arrived on our shores as our story merged with the formation of our province and country.
- Indigenous peoples welcomed the Acadians.
- European wars echoed in Pesikitk as French and British forces fought for control.
- Americans moved into Acadian farms in waves of Loyalist and Planter immigration.
- Missionaries brought religious and educational traditions.
- International trade in timber, furs and produce brought prosperity to the community.
- Military recruitment for two world wars left its legacy in Windsor
It was as if the tapestry of history was woven here. Pesikitk Cultural Heritage Centre will honour that history and preserve the cultural traditions that continue to evolve.
Who’s Who at PCHC
A Board of interested citizens have volunteered to lead this project. Anna Allen chairs the board. Jon Hall is the Director, Ruth Paige is treasurer and Phil Culhane handles stakeholder relations. Liz Galbraith and Pat Whidden are on the communications team. Other directors are: Peter Armstrong (Gaels), Roddy Johnson (Black NS), Darrell Leighton (Military), Vin Toney (Mi’kmaq), Shirley Pineo (WHHS), Darren Lynch and Brian McConnell.
What is the PCH Centre:
The PCHC will be a year-round centre that illustrates the history of Windsor and how the various cultural groups have influenced the community we have today. It will continue to showcase cultural activities as they evolve into the future. It will consist of four major elements.
Historical interpretation
Visitors will be drawn to a semi-permanent display which demonstrates the 300+ year development of the West Hants community and the interchange of cultures including Mi’kmaq, Acadians, Black Loyalists, Planters, Americans, British, French and Gaels. They participated in military, agricultural, educational, industrial, and business initiatives. Significant events that shaped Windsor will be highlighted:
- the Great Fire of 1897
- first agricultural fair in North America
- first private school in the British Commonwealth
- birthplace of hockey
- raising of the Jewish Legion in WW1
Genealogical research
An expanded genealogical research centre will contain the invaluable family records collected by the WHHS in a humidity, temperature, and fire protected vault and workspace. Already accessed by hundreds of genealogists each year, the centre will provide even more space, resources, and tools to help record and promote the family and business histories of the region.
Cultural expression
A network of fully adaptable salons will be used to host travelling exhibits, craft displays, art shows, cultural events (e.g. concerts), and community gatherings (e.g. weddings). Rotating and seasonal exhibits will invite both new and long-term residents and students to explore our historical roots and experience how they are reflected in our cultural evolution. Learning about our diverse experiences will enhance reconciliation and understanding which strengthens our community.
Programming areas
On the grounds outside the centre will be a genuine Mi’kmaq longhouse built by skilled elders. It will be used for instruction, ceremony, and cultural exploration. Beside it will be an outdoor amphitheatre where small theatrical productions, musical events, or educational programs can be staged when the weather permits. There will also be room around the centre for a healing medicine garden or sculpture park.
Not Just another Museum
West Hants is blessed with numerous recreation, sports, parks, and social facilities operated by the West Hants Regional Municipality. There are also many museums and cultural facilities in the Municipality. However, all the museums and cultural facilities in West Hants are operated by the provincial/federal governments or by small societies/community groups. The WHRM does not operate any cultural facilities: no opera halls, theatres, art galleries or archives. The PCHC, located on municipal land, will fill this cultural void.
Where is PCHC located
The WHRM council has shown their support by unanimously voting to dedicate the municipal land next to Fort Edward (the blockhouse) for the project.
Watch for signage to be installed this summer that indicates that the land is under development for the PCHC.
PCHS has a five-year plan
An ambitious five-year plan has been drawn-up to fund and build the PCHC. The plan requires that philanthropists, donors, and businesses in West Hants provide $2.7 million through donations or pledges over the next five years. Corporate donors will be asked to invest up to $1 million in the same time period. Stakeholders and individuals will be asked to provide up to $125,000 before the Centre opens. Once local finds are pledged the federal and provincial governments will be invited to invest $4 million.
To ensure the security of the donated funds, they will be held in trust by the Community Foundation of Nova Scotia (CFNS) in Dartmouth. The CFNS will provide safekeeping, professional management, and CRA compliance for large fund amounts. Smaller donations and operating funds will be banked locally with CRA receipts provided by WHHS which is a registered charity.
If you, or anyone you know, wants to invest in this exciting community opportunity, please email: pchc@whhs.ca
Building a team
The communications team at PCHC needs media relations, writers, social media, marketing, and communications members. If you can provide a couple of hours a month, we promise you a seat at the team table and a rewarding assignment