Life at the Lakes

Life at the Lakes

Queens County Heritage 2011

From Aboriginal times to the present, Queens County, New Brunswick and its lakes, the Washademoak and Grand Lakes, have hosted a vibrant transportation network and travel industry. Whether experiencing the relaxation of the many shorelines as a guest, returning home to rekindle childhood memories, or plying the waters to make a living, visitors to the lakes always leave with an enhanced appreciation of the natural beauty of the region. Residents on the other hand, are happy with a few memories and the economic investment left behind by the travelers.

Queens County, established in 1785, has an area of over 3,681 kilometres square that is divided into ten parishes. With an overall population of 11,708 according to the 2006 census, Queens County is fortunate to include a number of active communities. From Welsford in the south, to Minto and Chipman in the north and to Cambridge-Narrows and the Village of Gagetown in between, the communities of Queens County are as diverse as their locations. Our visitors and activities are as diverse as our communities. From boating, fishing, and swimming in Grand Lake, Washademoak Lake, and the St. John River; to rock-climbing on and around Mount Douglas near Welsford; to hiking and bird watching in Queens County’s many parks and nature preserves, visitors have found numerous ways to enjoy Queens County’s numerous natural resources. Home to a vibrant arts and culture scene, the county also offers its visitors a number of interesting heritage sites and attractions, many of which have a long history. Events form another important part of our identity with several, both long-running and recently established, drawing visitors from all over the world to experience Queens County’s unique culture and friendly hospitality.

This exhibit tells the story of the historic and contemporary travel industry in Queens County by exploring the various means of arrival and departure, locations of accommodations, work and leisure activities, entertainment, and the home and business connections. Using photographs and records from the past and the present, as well as current information collected from surveys and interviews, we have endeavoured to paint a picture of a century of tourism in Queens County, New Brunswick.