Two Hundred Fifty years ago, Royal Governor William Shirley, (whose
home is now a museum on Shirley Street in Roxbury) organized an
expedition of New Englanders to attack the mightiest French fort in
North America, the Fortress Louisbourg. The New Englanders won the
day. While colonists had engaged in successful military operations
prior to this, the capture of Louisbourg represents the first time
that American arms successfully challenged and significantly
affected the affairs of European powers. In 1826, the developers of
Beacon Hill named this elegant section of Boston after this
important historical event. Today, the Fortress of Louisbourg
National Historical Site is North America's largest historical
reconstruction. Located on Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia, Canada,
it faithfully depicts what life was like for the French colonists of
1744. To commemorate the 250th anniversary the Parks Services of
both Canada and the U.S. are using the occasion to expand the
awareness of Boston's visitors and residents about life in colonial
times.
The exhibit will feature an impressive collection of artifacts,
photos, portraits, models and much more. Several special events are
being planned in the Boston area surrounding the exhibit.
Strawberry Bank in Portsmouth New Hampshire is planning a "send off"
on July 8-9 for the period costumed soldiers who will take part in a
Grand Encampment to be held in Louisbourg, and The Shirley Eustis
House, 33 Shirley Street in Roxbury, is conducting a symposia in the
Fall.
Louisbourg itself is planning numerous activities including an
Acadian festival July 21-23, a Grand Encampment with over 1,300
historical re-enactors attending from across Canada and the United
States which includes a visit of the tall ships July 28-30, and
craft and wine shows all summer long. For more information on the
festivities in Louisbourg call 800-565-9464.
/CONTACT: Kathleen Sammataro of Harron and Associates, 617-267-7366/