New Exhibit Tells Story of Nova Scotia's Gaelic Language and Culture

Nova Scotians now have the opportunity to explore the proud traditions of its unique Gaelic community, the only one in Canada that still passes its language and culture down through generations.

Gaelic Affairs Minister Maurice Smith was joined by museum visitors and guests today, April 24, to launch Na Gàidheil an Albainn Nuaidh -- The Gaels in Nova Scotia, a new exhibit at the Nova Scotia Museum of Natural History in Halifax.

"Nova Scotia's Gaelic community has a strong, unbroken connection to the past, as well as the energy of young community members who will carry the Gaelic spirit into the future," said Mr. Smith. "What better way to celebrate Gaelic Awareness Month this May than to start your journey by visiting an interactive exhibit that tells the story of the Gaels in Nova Scotia.

"The new exhibit is an excellent way for Nova Scotians to explore one of our province's founding cultures, and to take pride in learning about our communities, culture and heritage."

The exhibit shows how the Gaels who settled throughout eastern Nova Scotia and Cape Breton Island passed their language, and culture and traditions down through the generations.

The exhibit features the story of Gaelic Society from its earliest period in Scotland up to the time of the breakup of the clan system, the Highland Clearances and emigration to Nova Scotia. It also features what the Gaelic community looks like today, providing visitors with opportunities to explore aspects of Gaelic identity and cultural expression.

"This exhibit provides Nova Scotians a wonderful opportunity to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of the history of the Gaels," said Norma MacLean, chair of Sgoil Ghàidhlig an Àrd-Bhaile (Gaelic Society of Halifax). "It shows what they endured as a people and how their unique language and culture persist in Nova Scotia today and how these contribute to the rich diversity of our province."

The Gaels in Nova Scotia will be open until May 29. For more information, go to museum.gov.ns.ca/mnhnew.