Northumberland Fisheries Museum

About Us

Where the salt of the sea meets the salt of the earth.

Our History

Founded in 1979, The Northumberland Fisheries Museum is a registered charity and not-for-profit organization which strives to represent the rich heritage and culture of the fishing industry and its people, who have shaped the communities along the Northumberland Strait.

Our goal is to operate as a community museum that collects, interprets, and displays the material and oral culture of the Northumberland Strait fishery. We strive to do this by developing exhibitions, displays, and events that help to educate folks on the history of the strait and maintain the legacy of the fishing industry.

We also strive to act as a community hub and a place where anyone and everyone can share a pleasant and fulfilling experience by ensuring we are a welcoming, diverse, and inclusive space where all can be comfortable.

We truly believe that we are “Where the salt of the sea, meets the salt of the earth.”

From the Collection

Jean, Edna and George Wright shucking scallops in Cape John, 1967
Scallop shucking, 1967. Jean, Edna, and George Wright in Cape John, from the Beulah Jane Wright Collection.
1950 newspaper clipping of Queen of the Lobster Carnival contestants
1950 newspaper clipping, Queen of the Lobster Carnival contestants.
Boats docked in Cape John in 1955, preparing to set traps
Boats docked in Cape John, 1955, getting ready to go set traps.

Supporters, Accreditation & Awards

The Northumberland Fisheries Museum is a proud member of the Association of Nova Scotia Museums, and we have the great pleasure of being designated as an Accredited Museum, a public acknowledgement of excellence in Nova Scotia museums.

Our work at the Northumberland Fisheries Museum is made possible with support from the Department of Communities, Culture & Heritage.

Proud winner of the 2017 Chief Experience Opportunity presented by Destination Eastern & Northumberland Shores.

Frequently Asked Questions

Lobster season, our collection, and why we are not open year round.

Read the FAQ

Book Our Community Room

A large room on our upper level with a kitchen, bar space and a balcony over the harbour.

Request the room

Ways To Support The Museum

Memberships, gifts, and donations to the collection.

Support us