Research Department
Director: Rosalie Francis

The Membertou Research Department was established in the spring of 2005, when it was recognized by the Chief and Council that there was a need to ensure that the collective history of Membertou was documented in some type of written format. The growth that Membertou has experienced recently, both economically and socially, has lead to reflection on Membertou’s past and consideration that the people and events have contributed to where they find themselves today. Membertou is a strong Mi’kmaq community that is extremely proud of their unique cultural history. They recognize that their Mi’kmaq culture, language and history are central to whom they are and they do not want themselves or future generations to forget their ancestors who have brought them to the place they find themselves at today. They feel that through the documentation of their history, the people that shaped it, and the events that they have collectively experienced, they can ensure that the cultural and historical legacy of Membertou is never forgotten.

The primary area that the research department is currently focusing on is Membertou’s Collective History. The department is identifying and gathering any type of documentation which provides specific information regarding Membertou’s history; be it people, events, or experiences. The program researches as far back as the 15th Century and is looking for documents from the National Archives, as well as local institutions such as the Fortress of Louisbourg and the Nova Scotia Archives. In order to ensure that our Mi’kmaq Oral History is documented and preserved, the research department also interviews the elders to ask them to share their experiences and stories. This research is a significant accomplishment that will ensure that the oral history that is held by the elders is preserved for future generations. Through this combination of literary research and oral knowledge documentation, we will be assured that Membertou’s collective history is inclusive of the events and experiences that are most important to the community.

For more information regarding the Research Department, or if you would like to share any pictures or resources with us, please contact Rosalie Francis at (902) 429-0549.

1969 Upper Water St. Suite 1703
Halifax , Nova Scotia
B3J 3R7
Tel: (902) 429-0549
Fax; (902) 429-5461