Birch Bark Canoe Project at Maritime Museum for Mi'kmaq History Month

People have a chance to see tradition come to life as a seventh-generation Mi'kmaq elder will build a 17-foot birch bark canoe at the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic in October.

Todd Labrador, from the Kejimkujik area, begins building the traditional canoe, used for ocean travel, today, Sept. 30, in the museum's Small Craft Gallery. He will have a regular work schedule during museum hours on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays.

"My father was very young when he helped build the last canoe my great-grandfather made," said Mr. Labrador. "My first full-size canoe was done about a year after my father passed away, so this project is important to keep his dream alive and to show and teach others this ancient skill."

He also hopes visitors will have a stronger appreciation and understanding of what nature and the land can offer, while having great respect for it.

ViewFinders, a youth division of the Atlantic Film Festival, will document the birch canoe project, while being mentored by film professionals.

"This unique documentary production will allow students to immerse themselves in Mi'kmaq culture and heritage, and tell the story of the building of the canoe to those that see the film production," said Jason Beaudry, Viewfinders director, Atlantic Film Festival Association.

Kim Reinhardt, general manger at the museum, is honoured to host the project during Mi'kmaq History Month.

"Having Todd create this amazing canoe and sharing his talent and traditions will allow visitors to see, first-hand, Mi'kmaq craftsmanship and history in the making," said Ms. Reinhardt.

For schedule details and updates on the project, visit the museum website at maritime.museum.gov.ns.ca .

Mr. Labrador will speak on traditional birch bark canoe building Tuesday, Oct. 5 at 7:30 p.m. at the museum. Admission is free.

The Maritime Museum of the Atlantic is at 1675 Lower Water St., Halifax.