The Agricultural Museum of New Brunswick, located in the heart of Sussex, serves as a treasure trove of agricultural history that transports visitors back in time. Established by enthusiastic members of the local farming community, it embodies the province's rich farming legacy and deep rural pride. This museum has recently gained attention due to a notable donation of a woodworking tool collection. However, this article delves deeper into the museum's mission, its wide range of exhibits, and its dedication to preserving New Brunswick's agricultural heritage.
Agricultural Saga
A Journey Through Time
The Agricultural Museum features a captivating campus that comprises several historic buildings, including a Blacksmith’s Shop, a Railway Gate House, and the former Apohaqui Train Station, all reminiscent of a bygone era. However, the main building is where the heart of the museum lies. Here, visitors enter on a journey through time, exploring meticulously curated displays that showcase the evolution of agriculture in New Brunswick.
A Window into Rural Life
Within the museum’s walls, guests encounter an abundance of artifacts and documents collected over the years, each with its own fascinating story. The exhibits feature fully furnished rooms that depict life during various time periods, a one-room schoolhouse, and a dedicated section devoted to New Brunswick’s dairy production history. Among the collection’s highlights is a truly unique artifact—a calf born with one head, two bodies, and seven legs, a testimony to the museum’s commitment to preserving the unusual aspects of rural life.
Harvest Days and Live Demonstrations
While the museum is open seasonally, from Victoria Day Weekend to the end of August, one of the most anticipated events is “Harvest Days.” This autumn celebration provides a hands-on experience for visitors, where artifacts are taken out of the Agriculture Museum and put into operation. From threshing grain and churning butter to the making of apple cider, guests can witness traditional farming practices come to life. The event also features a lively live auction, adding an element of excitement to the festivities.
Accessibility and Engagement
One of the museum’s most admirable qualities is its commitment to accessibility. The Agricultural Museum of New Brunswick proudly offers free entry to all visitors, eliminating financial barriers to learning about the province’s agricultural heritage. While summer months allow for drop-in tours, the museum also accommodates group tours and class visits by appointment outside of regular hours.
Preserving the Past, Shaping the Future
As the museum welcomes visitors into its immersive displays of agricultural equipment, rural home settings, and the Blacksmith’s Shop, it continues to foster a sense of appreciation for New Brunswick’s agricultural past. The recent donation of over 160 woodworking tools, lovingly collected and restored by the late Clement Powell, adds another layer to the museum’s rich tapestry of history.
The Agricultural Museum of New Brunswick stands as a beacon of rural heritage and proof of the enduring spirit of farming here. With its distinct exhibits, commitment to accessibility, and recent acquisition of the Powell woodworking tool collection, the museum remains dedicated to preserving the past while educating and inspiring future generations. A visit to this unique institution is not just a trip through time but a deep dive into the essence of New Brunswick’s agricultural legacy.
