Province Invests in Cape Breton Miners Museum

The government is investing $800,000 in the second phase of renovations at the Cape Breton Miners Museum in Glace Bay.

“Cape Breton is an important tourism driver for this province, and the Cape Breton Miners Museum is a gem that shares part of Nova Scotia’s unique history with visitors and residents alike,” said John White, MLA for Glace Bay-Dominion, on behalf of Pat Dunn, Minister of Communities, Culture, Tourism and Heritage. “Our government is committed to making investments that help maintain our heritage. Projects like these keep our communities strong, attract tourists and grow the economy.”

This project will enhance visitor experience and contribute positively to the preservation of Cape Breton’s coal mining legacy. Phase 2 of the renovations includes upgrades to the lobby, the Men of the Deeps theatre, the Lamphouse and the pre-tour area.

The Government of Canada is also providing a non-repayable contribution of $800,000 through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) towards the project.

Quotes:

“To fully appreciate what we have today, we have to honour the past. The Cape Breton Miners Museum, one of the province’s premier tourism destinations, has long excelled at telling the powerful stories of the mining industry and its formative role in shaping our region. I am proud that our government is supporting the museum to fully commemorate that legacy for generations to come.”

– Mike Kelloway, Member of Parliament for Cape Breton–Canso, on behalf of Ginette Petitpas Taylor, Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency

“Cape Breton Miners Museum’s board, staff and volunteers are very excited to begin Phase 2 of our infrastructure renewal. Phase 1 created a quality visitor experience that went beyond our expectations. We look forward to getting the team back together to build new experiences that ensure our museum remains one of the most beloved destinations in the Maritimes for many years to come.”

– Mary Pat Mombourquette, Executive Director, Cape Breton Miners Museum

Quick Facts:

• Phase 1 of the project was completed in March 2021 and included exterior renovations, structural repairs, landscaping and a renewal of the museum’s interpretive offerings
• the Cape Breton Miners Museum opened to the public in 1967 and welcomes 15,000 visitors each year
• the museum is home to the Men of the Deeps, Canada’s only coal miners chorus

Additional Resources:

Cape Breton Miners Museum website: https://www.minersmuseum.com/

The Men of the Deeps website: http://menofthedeeps.com/