3.0 Strategic Direction for Commemorative Integrity, 
Stewardship & Visitor Services ~

3.4 Heritage Presentation and Communication

 A. The Reconstruction

As a result of the closure of a number of coal mines in industrial Cape Breton in the 1950s, the federal government set up a royal commission to consider the future of coal mining in Cape Breton and alternatives to coal mining. The Report of the Royal Commission on Coal (Rand Commission) was completed in 1960. Among other measures, Rand recommended the symbolic reconstruction of Louisbourg sufficient to furnish a comprehensive representation of the material and cultural forms.

In response to the recommendations of the Commission, Parks Canada assembled a workforce to undertake the project including a wide range of professionals and skilled labourers such as historians, archaeologists, engineers, architects, interpreters, stone masons, and others. In 1962 the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada, in discussing the reconstruction project, urged that "adequate precautions through proper historical and archaeological research be taken to ensure the integrity of any restoration." Between 1964 and 1980 the workforce reconstructed almost one-quarter of the 18th century walled townsite at Louisbourg comprising a cross-section of the town from the fortified walls to the waterfront [MAP 5].

The reconstructed townsite includes 65 major buildings and 21 associated small buildings or structures. The largest building reconstructed is the massive barracks in the King's Bastion. It includes the governor's apartment, council chamber, officers' quarters, chapel, prison, and barracks rooms. Other buildings reconstructed include the Civil Administrator's residence, the Engineer's House and King's Storehouse, and the smaller de Gannes house. 

Associated buildings include stables, dove cotes, sentry boxes, an ice house and a lime kiln. In addition, the reconstructed townsite includes two town gates, the masonry King's Bastion and Dauphin Demi-bastion, curtain walls, the quay wall, ditches, covered ways, glacis, various terre-pleins, the parade square, wharves, streets, and yards. An outlying building represents a fishing district known as the Fauxbourg. 

The reconstructed townsite also includes various viewplanes, consciously recreated within the fortress walls to create an enclosed 18th century space, and outward vistas across a landscape that has seen occupation and use since the early 18th century. The reconstructed townsite needs to be viewed as part of a larger picture. The townsite is inextricably linked to Level 1 cultural resources. Three-quarters of the original townsite, with the remains of walls and other structures, lies unexcavated adjacent to the reconstructed portion. There are Level 1 cultural resources, incorporated into the reconstruction, including the postern tunnels, mine gallery, wells, pavé, drains, etc. In addition, there are hundreds of other Level 1 cultural resources associated with the sieges of 1745 and 1758 surrounding the Fortress. This is all part of an information resource - a window on the 18th century including archaeological and historical records. 

The reconstructed townsite can be viewed from other perspectives as well. It offers a wonderful backdrop or context for a variety of activities. For interpretation, the reconstruction is a critical set piece for insight into another time. In addition, the reconstructed townsite is a powerful evocation of an ongoing community centred around the harbour. The vision and silhouette of Louisbourg across the harbour and against the sky add variety, texture and quality to the landscape. The reconstructed townsite reflects a belief in the desirability of making history accessible and understandable to Canadians. 

The reconstructed townsite can be looked at as a model of the past and as an excellent example of applied research. It suggests important historical contexts, spatial relationships, textures, patterns of use, technologies, and above all, a sense of another world. On a macro level the research has led to one-quarter of the walled townsite being reconstructed with a form, level, and visuality that is an honest reflection of historical and archaeological knowledge. On a micro level, the design of the iron hardware, finish details on windows, doors and stairwells reflect a generation of effort to apply research conscientiously. However, compromises have occurred over the years as the reconstruction proceeded. Even now, as the recapitalization program proceeds, modern interventions are occurring for a variety of reasons, including meeting codes and standards, and ensuring the longevity of the reconstructed buildings.

The reconstructed townsite is a measure of the professionalism of staff at the Site. Staff have undertaken the research to support the reconstruction project and have compiled an important collection of artifacts, historical documents, reports and manuscripts in the process. All are critical to develop and enhance interpretation and to carry out the recapitalization program and daily maintenance.

The reconstructed townsite is Canada's largest and one of the largest in the world. The basic cost of the townsite was between $25,000,000. and $30,000,000., and has an estimated replacement value of $87,000,000. in current dollars.

The reconstructed townsite is a symbol of the preservation movement, a landmark for the community and nation, and an important economic generator for Cape Breton Island and the province. It conveys a sense of what can be achieved by a country interested in cultural stewardship. Nearly forty years after Justice Rand's recommendations, the positive impacts of Fortress Louisbourg are still being felt.

Recapitalization 

More than thirty years of use by millions of visitors, deterioration associated with Louisbourg's coastal climate, and rising sea levels, have all led to considerable wear and tear on the reconstructed townsite. The microclimate of the townsite, with its rain, fog, and salt air, means that wood exposed to the elements does not dry out, and is subject to extreme fungal problems. A major program of structural repair to address the condition of the buildings is now under way.

The recapitalization project will ultimately mean that regular on-going maintenance will be adequate to ensure the effective management of the reconstructed buildings and structures.

Future Reconstruction

As early as the 1970s, there have been external proposals to reconstruct additional buildings beyond which Parks Canada had planned for and eventually completed. Examples include the Royal Battery and the hospital - two prominent structures on the 18th century landscape.

These types of proposals may continue to arise from time to time. The proponents of these proposals would be responsible for meeting all the requirements of the Cultural Resource Management Policy on reconstruction. There is, however, much unused space in existing buildings and structures that needs to be considered first for whatever services and uses may be proposed.

Strategic Actions

• Parks Canada will complete the recapitalization program as resources permit. Once complete, the emphasis will be placed on proper on-going maintenance to safeguard the buildings and structures.

• Existing research information will continue to be considered in decision-making with respect to interventions required for the recapitalization program.

• Parks Canada will not pursue the reconstruction of additional buildings or structures beyond the boundaries of the current reconstructed townsite. The emphasis will be placed on utilizing currently unused or underutilized space when external proposals are put forward for new visitor services, programs or partnerships.

• Parks Canada will submit the complex of the reconstructed townsite to the Federal Heritage Buildings Review Office for evaluation when it becomes 40 years old.

There have been many steps over the years that have led to a definition of the messages that are being interpreted at the Site. The deliberations and recommendations of the Historic Sites and Monuments Board have been key in this respect. The Board discussions during the 1920s and 1930s are very illuminating with respect to the Site's commemorative intent. By 1931, the Board had erected five plaques at Louisbourg. These plaques were important statements about the Board's perceptions of Louisbourg's history in the early years.

With the beginning of the reconstruction of the 1960s and 1970s, Site staff produced a number of documents that provided direction for Louisbourg's interpretive messages. These documents have largely provided the framework for current programming at the Site.

The recent completion of the Commemorative Integrity Statement has refocused Parks Canada's attention on Level 1 messages and Level 1 cultural resources. The Statement also identifies Level 2 messages. These do not relate to commemorative intent, but in most cases help to explain the evolution of the Site since the 18th century. A review of the Site's current interpretive situation, as it relates to the Site's Level 1 messages, reveals certain shortcomings.

i) Louisbourg in the Anglo-French Rivalry in North America, 1713-68

Louisbourg's role in the Anglo-French struggle for North America, and, by extension, the two sieges, is under-represented. It receives minimal attention in the Site's literature. While both animation and the reconstruction feature a heavy military emphasis, such programs respond best to questions on the immediate and specific rather than larger, more contextual geo-political issues. Linked to this message is the French alliance with the Mi'kmaq. That alliance, and French relations with the Mi'kmaq are generally underrepresented.

ii) Louisbourg: Fishing Centre and Commercial Entrepot, 1713-58

The Louisbourg fisheries do not receive adequate coverage. They were central to Louisbourg's history, but their scale and complexity are difficult to visualize today. The Des Roches building, on the shore near the entrance to the Fortress, has limitations in its presentation of the fisheries.

Louisbourg was one of the major ports and trading centres in North America in the 18th century. It is difficult, however, for visitors to obtain an appreciation of the seaward orientation of the site and the scope of its seaborne trade. This is partly because visitors approach the Fortress by land, and partly because the Fortress is essentially a land-based reconstruction. Animators and exhibits try to convey the implications of Louisbourg's maritime trades, but the scale of the maritime component of the Fortress is too small to effectively convey the importance of the port.

iii) Louisbourg: The Capital of Ile Royale, 1719-1758 

So far, interpretation of society and culture at Louisbourg has had a rather narrow focus on French colonial society in the early 1740s. There is a need to expand the focus to the British occupation from 1745 to 1749, and the second French occupation, 1749-58. There is also a need to take into account the tremendous growth over the last few decades of interest in women's history, in ethnic minorities, and First Nations, all of which were represented in Louisbourg's cosmopolitan society.

Strategic Actions

• A comprehensive review of the current interpretation plan will form the initial step for developing a new interpretation plan for the Site. This will address how to communicate the national significance of Louisbourg, as well as messages about the system of national historic sites, outcomes, audiences, media and evaluation.

• The emphasis will be on the Level 1 messages and Level 1 cultural resources that relate directly to the national significance of the Site. These messages in particular need to be effectively communicated to specific visitor groups and the public. Objectives and actions will vary depending on the audience. The link to the cultural resources will be strengthened.
    

• The interpretation plan will also address Level 2 messages as part of this review. 

C. Multicultural, Women's and First Nations Presentation

Eighteenth century Louisbourg was a town with a diverse population of residents and visitors. The French population included Bretons, Gascons and others. Each group had cultural differences, likely manifested in language, accent, dress, and customs. The population also included numbers of Basques, Germans, Irish, people of African descent, and Mi'kmaq.

Of the non-French population, the Basques were the most numerous group. Almost every year, especially during the summer fishery, there were several hundred Basques in port. Their collective contribution to the economy of Ile Royale was substantial. 

Next to the Basques, the most numerous group in the period before 1745 were the German and Swiss soldiers of the Karrer Regiment. Their distinctive uniforms, languages, and customs (including the Protestantism of many of the soldiers), set them apart from their French counterparts. 

There were also several dozen Irish in the town over a period of years. Many worked as servants; some had trades. 

In addition to expanding the interpretation of different European groups at Louisbourg, there is also a need to offer more information about the involvement of Black people in the 18th century colony. More than 200 Blacks lived and worked at Louisbourg between 1713 and 1760. Most were slaves, but a few were free and worked at trades. 

Women's roles and contributions in 18th century Louisbourg society need to be better highlighted. Research on women's roles in 18th century French society is currently under way that will provide information to help guides and costumed staff in the interpretation program. 

With regard to Aboriginal history, the priority is the interpretation of Mi'kmaq associations. The Mi'kmaq had an alliance with the French. Louisbourg was a place of contact to maintain their important relationship. It is worth noting, however, that people from other First Nations also had connections with the Fortress. There were Malecites and Abenaki on the French side, some New England tribes on the British side, and various individuals identified as "Panis" slaves.

The Fortress is fortunate in having a complex and rich history in which individuals and groups from a range of First Nations, ethnic and cultural backgrounds played a major part. That colourful and varied history need only be revealed - fairly, accurately, and with respect. This requires good research, and effective partnerships with the groups whose history is to be depicted. For example, there is the Mi'kmaq interpretive trail, completed in 1995 in partnership with the Unama'ki Committee. Since 1996 Mi'kmaq interpreters have been assigned to the Mi'kmaq trail or to work within the reconstructed townsite.

Strategic Actions

• Verbal and textual references to peoples of non-French and non-British backgrounds who played significant roles in the story of 18th century Louisbourg will be increased. This will involve an array of methods, including guides, animators, exhibits, and publications.

• The story of the role of women in 18th century Louisbourg will be enhanced through guides, animators, exhibits and publications.

• Costumes and other material culture or furnishing items will be introduced into the animation program to reflect the diverse cultures of Louisbourg's population.

• Special event performances by Aboriginal peoples or by groups from cultural backgrounds appropriate to 18th century Louisbourg will be encouraged. 

• These efforts will be accomplished through consultation with Aboriginal peoples and the groups involved and through meaningful partnerships. It is best to address this in a comprehensive interpretive planning effort where strategies and specific actions can be highlighted.

For more than twenty years, interpretation by costumed staff at Louisbourg has centred on the summer of 1744. Use of animators had its origins in presentations at other outdoor museums such as colonial Williamsburg and Old Fort Henry. In the 1960s and 1970s putting costumes on interpreters fit into a growing desire to use historic sites to popularize history and to attract more visitors.

The year 1745 was selected for the reconstruction project because it was difficult to determine the nature of the repairs made after the damage from the first siege, what changes the New Englanders may have subsequently made, and which structures were retained by the French in the 1750s. The previous summer (1744) was chosen for animation purposes because there was no siege and accompanying physical destruction to explain.

In some areas, however, interpretation has moved away from 1744. The Hotel de la Marine would have been used in 1744 as a prison for New Englanders captured at Canso and during privateering raids. In addition there are reconstructed buildings which are now much older than they were as original buildings in 1745. This aging, and the effects of major repairs and minor upkeep means that the earlier interpretive approach can no longer be maintained with the same vigour.

The "1744 moment in time" approach needs to be evaluated to determine whether it limits the ability to address the Site's Level 1 messages and, to achieve commemorative integrity. This evaluation needs to consider the following points:

• 1744 is an attractive publicity hook: the idea of stepping into a moment in time appeals to visitors. It creates a focussed learning and experiential situation.

• Animation is only one interpretive tool. A complete appreciation of the story requires that the entire interpretive offer be considered including the reconstructed townsite, guided tours, exhibits, theme lounges, publications, interpretive walks, gift shop and period restaurants.

• Broadening the timeframe will not resolve the limitations of animation and recreated historical environments. No matter how sophisticated costumed interpretation becomes the past can never be recreated in all its complexity.

• The full interpretive potential of 1744 has never been developed.

• New information about 18th century Louisbourg has come to light through ongoing research.

• New environmental issues, a growing multicultural society, and new social and technological issues all need to be considered.

• Costumed interpretation has been very successful with visitors. Yet it does have limitations as a medium to help present 18th century history.

• The task continues to be to interpret Louisbourg's place in North American history as an event, a community, and a culture.

• A change in the interpretive approach away from 1744 must not be done unilaterally, in a piecemeal or incremental way.

• The advantages of a focused research approach need to be evaluated.

Strategic Actions

• The 1744 approach will be maintained until a comprehensive review of the current interpretation program is undertaken. This review will be part of completing the interpretation plan for the Site.

• This review will consider all the media used to interpret Louisbourg - animation, guided tours, the reconstructed townsite, exhibits, publications and special events. It will also consider and place into perspective on-site and off-site presentations of Fortress Louisbourg as well as interpretation by volunteers and others.

In the 1960s exhibits were a key interpretive medium, along with the reconstructed townsite and guided tours. There were static displays in buildings and interpretive panels along trails or at vantage points throughout the Site. There were also small exhibit buildings at various points. These pavilions combined models, pictures, text, and interesting vistas to interpret aspects of Louisbourg's history.

The 1973 Interpretive Plan proposed a number of exhibits for buildings throughout the reconstructed townsite. The 1977 update of the plan introduced the idea of theme lounges. They started as rest areas for visitors, but added reading rooms and audio-visual presentations focussed around the five theme areas developed in the mid-1970s. Exhibits were also placed in the visitor reception centre. 

Exhibits were eclipsed in the late 1970s and 1980s as a medium of interpretation by the more popular animation and living history programs. Nevertheless, there has been a recognition that living history programs cannot accomplish all that is needed to present the Level 1 messages that relate directly to achieving commemorative integrity. From the outset, exhibits, along with other interpretive media, were meant to create supportive interpretive packages that would address gaps with which living history programs could not deal.

In recent years, financial restraint has posed problems for constructing new exhibits and refurbishing older ones. In addition, there are a number of current issues that need to be addressed in dealing with exhibits. These include:

• message gaps and new interpretive ideas,

• accessibility,

• revenue generation, fees, and sponsorships,

• new technologies such as virtual reality, geographical information systems, compact discs and video,

• new audiences outside the Site, including nearby communities and those farther away,

• the role of exhibit pavilions, 
    

• the challenge of partnerships to help develop the exhibit medium.

Strategic Actions

• The exhibits program will be reviewed as part of completing the interpretation plan, and recommendations will be made for specific exhibit development and replacement which will ensure integration into a comprehensive interpretive program.

• The review will consider in addition to that needed for the reconstructed townsite:

a) Exhibit development for Level 1 and Level 2 messages throughout the entire Site,

b) Options for sharing research expertise with the local and Cape Breton Island community and other agencies that will lead to the development of exhibit media addressing Louisbourg's presentation requirements while providing attractions to the communities in which the exhibits are located,

c) Opportunities for partnership or shared development of exhibits.

Fortress of Louisbourg offers a variety of outreach programs which have traditionally been developed for children in both formal and informal educational situations, but which have also expanded in more recent years to include a variety of other audiences. 

Programs geared specifically to students include tours of the Site by school groups, the children's interpretive centre, the Fortress of Louisbourg Volunteers children's program, off-site staff visits to schools, and the use of books, print materials, videos/films, and educational kits (edu-kits). School groups usually book a guided tour of the Site, and then take time to visit buildings and talk to animators. Approximately 4,000 students visit the Fortress each year. The children's interpretive centre, run by the Volunteers in July and August, provides an educational experience for approximately 1,000 children aged four to ten. The Volunteers children's program offers an on-site experience to children aged five to sixteen years who are members of the Fortress of Louisbourg Volunteers. Over 8000 hours are contributed annually through this program. Participants spend five days each, dressed in period costume, taking part in the daily life of 18th century Louisbourg. An apprentice program offers opportunities in specific skills areas to volunteers aged 13 to 16.

Visits to Cape Breton Island schools are carried out by staff on a 'by request' basis. Typically, these visits reach between 1,500 and 2,000 students annually. Also available in Maritime elementary schools is a teacher's source book, a product of the combined efforts of the Fortress of Louisbourg, local teachers, the Nova Scotia Teacher's Union, Enterprise Cape Breton Corporation and Nimbus Publishing. Geared to the grade six level, it covers Fortress messages through puzzles, games, questionnaires, and activities.

There have been numerous videos and films produced since the 1960s. For example, a series of videos on Louisbourg topics is available to schools through the Nova Scotia Education Media Services. Printed material is limited, but has been made available on request for school projects. A rotating exhibit is also maintained at the local school. Edu-kits in both French and English are loaned to teachers on request. The contents are geared to a grade six curriculum and, as quantities are quite limited, there is always a waiting list.

Messages have also been reaching the general public and specific niche groups through a variety of other efforts, some of which are accomplished through partnership arrangements and others of which are produced privately, but assist in the achievement of the outreach objectives. These include presentations by Fortress staff at academic and other conferences in Canada and abroad. This presence has a multiplier effect of allowing the participants to inject Louisbourg content into various curriculum levels. Other methods used to reach a more general public are through input and/or coordination of travelling exhibits, art shows, numerous publications and television documentaries with national and international distribution. A production of a CD Rom on the Fortress is available in all schools in Ontario and is also available to the general public. A partnership with the Louisbourg Institute has created an extensive web site on the Fortress which is accessed 2500 times daily. Other partnership arrangements like that with the Nova Scotia College of Art and Design bring the messages and resources of the Fortress to a more diverse audience through artistic endeavours. Continuation and expansion of these outreach efforts are essential to increase awareness, support and understanding of the key messages for the broader public.

Strategic Actions

• Develop an approach for outreach programs to enlarge Louisbourg's client base.

• Fortress of Louisbourg staff will work with others to develop a professional edu-kit for off-site use.

• Printed material, consisting of one-page backgrounders and pre-trip packages will be developed for school projects, along with information handouts for school groups to provide focus for their limited time on site.

• A variety of video and film opportunities will be pursued with partners to provide a succinct and accurate overview of both 18th and 20th century Louisbourg.

• Fortress of Louisbourg staff will pursue, in conjunction with partners, a curriculum for an on-site "Day Camp" program to provide educational opportunities for visitors to participate in a working/living 18th century community.

• Fortress staff will explore the development of a teacher in-service program to promote the accuracy of classroom instruction and to encourage the use of available resources. 

• Site staff will continue to be involved in the management of successful programs such as the children's interpretive centre and the Volunteers children's program, both of which are the responsibility of the Volunteers.
    

• All of these education/extension programs will have consistent, on-going evaluation procedures, and active monitoring along with regular up-dating of educational materials.

Since the beginning of the reconstruction, Parks Canada has attempted through its interpretation program to reflect accurately the events, people, and society that constituted the fabric of life in this 18th-century colonial town. Early in the project it was decided that one of the principal methods of interpretation would be animation - that is, people dressed in period costumes taking on the roles and characters of people who inhabited the Fortress and carried out the daily routines of life in the 1740s.

This program has been supported by historical research on costume, furnishings, military life, the fishery, religion, food, cooking, gardening, pastimes, social structures and many other topics which contributed to an accurate portrayal of 18th-century life. 

Research results have enabled the animation program to evolve through a variety of interpretive approaches, including first-person role-playing and modern demonstrations of period crafts. The style of presentation in animation, the exhibits program, print materials and contemporary tour guides provide Parks Canada with numerous opportunities to portray accurately and sensitively the variety of people associated with Louisbourg's history.

By 1994 the animation program had expanded to include soldiers, officers, artillerymen, drummers, servants, gardeners, fishermen, clerks, ladies and gentlemen, bakers, musicians, a Recollet priest, merchants, and children, along with specific roles used for special events.

As a result of the introduction of legislation such as the Canadian Human Rights Act, the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, and the Canadian Multiculturalism Act, as well as demographic changes in Canada, Parks Canada developed its own guidelines concerning the principles of employment equity. In consideration of the above, gender and race are no longer used as occupational requirements when hiring costumed personnel.

Duties are assigned on the basis of required skills and abilities.

Strategic Actions

• Parks Canada is committed to the accurate and sensitive portrayal of all peoples who through their various contributions, helped shape the Site's history.

• Research will continue to support animation programs reflecting the accuracy of period settings, historical objects, appropriate activities and demographics.

Costume plays a powerful and pervasive role in the interpretation program. Each year costumed animators breathe life into static rooms, buildings, and streetscapes. Without a word being spoken, a visitor can assess whether an animator is a soldier or a fisherman, a lady or her servant. These individuals wear costumes for periods ranging from a single day for special events and photo sessions to upwards of four months for some seasonal programs.

The Fortress of Louisbourg possesses an extensive costume collection of more than 4,000 individual pieces. These costumes represent both military and civilian clothing and reflect a variety of classes, ranks and occupational groups. In addition to their use within the reconstructed townsite, they are also borrowed during the off-season for special events such as fashion shows.

Over the years, a variety of problems relating to the realities of costuming hundreds of interpreters have arisen, and have prompted a re-evaluation of the existing costume stock and methods of production. The perishable nature of clothing necessitates its constant re-evaluation and replacement. Both the docuumentation and the production techniques require examination.

An accurately presented costume program is based on sound research. The major sources of information include written primary and secondary sources, period illustrations and paintings, as well as original garments. The production of costume requires decisions relating to available knowledge of appearance and construction of 18th century costume and the context of its use. Costumes can fall into three categories:

• stitch-for-stitch replicas of original garments, 

• reproductions based on period construction techniques that include some compromises, 

• adaptations, which are essentially modern garments inspired by eighteenth-century design.

Historic adaptations are inappropriate in the reconstructed townsite. Financial limitations largely dictate the choice between replicas and reproductions. Replicas are an expensive undertaking, particularly given the large and constantly changing nature of Louisbourg's seasonal staff. As a result, compromises are made to strike a balance between operational demands and accurate, durable costumes. 

The translation of documentation or material evidence into a wearable document, is in effect a form of applied research. Prototype garments are used to set the standards for future garments. Ideally, construction techniques should deviate as little as possible from original garments in terms of materials, cut and construction. The significance of documentation becomes evident as changes are made to the prototype garments. Change is inevitable as additional costume research is completed, or as changes occur in the animation program.

Costumes need also to be examined in the broader context of interpretive planning, as they can serve different presentation purposes. For example, costume replicas could be made for display, which would permit discussion of a variety of costumes not generally seen on site. Replicas could also be created for visitors to handle and perhaps even to try on. Adaptations could also have a place. These costumes or their patterns, modified for home sewers, could be sold in the gift shop or elsewhere. This suggests a sort of hierarchy of period costumes:

• adaptations could be sold and marketed

• reproductions could be worn by animation staff, and

• replicas could be used in displays or for demonstrations.

Strategic Actions

Period reproduction costume is a popular and effective interpretive element. Louisbourg's reputation for accurate costumes will be maintained by:

• Continuing to research eighteenth-century dress in order to:

a) produce accurate standard patterns and period construction information,

b) develop Louisbourg-specific information so that the complexity and diverse cultures of Louisbourg society can be presented,

c) create an information base that will be of use to interpretive specialists and others in the field.

• Encouraging the training of additional seamstresses as well as continuing to develop the skills of current period clothing fabricators in order to meet the growing demand for high quality reproduction costumes.

• Expanding the role of period costume beyond its visual function so that it is seen as an interpretive tool in the presentation and discussion of daily life in the eighteenth century. This will be carried out through the completion of the interpretive plan for the Site.

Since 1961, staff at Fortress of Louisbourg have collected or produced information in order to meet their operational needs for protection and presentation. Over the last 35 years, these two collections have grown considerably whereby today there are many thousands of records, cards and documents, books including rare 18th century published books, drawings and photographs, monographs and serials, and reproduced micro-filmed manuscript material dealing with the 18th century. The acquisition has led to the need for custodial and managerial services to protect and maintain the collections, and make them available for use of Site staff and others.

The two collections hold distinctly different types of materials. The library contains secondary published materials such as books and periodicals. The archives hold a vast range of primary unpublished documentation and records relating to the operation and development of Fortress of Louisbourg since 1961. Both collections hold their information in a variety of formats: paper, micro-form, photo, audio-visual and computer.

In the last several years, computerization including imaging of materials has moved forward relatively quickly. As a result, the difference between the library and archival materials from a storage, retrieval and materials viewpoint has become less distinct. More importantly, computerization is accelerating cross-referencing between the two collections resulting in a greater interdependency from a research and information perspective. Finding aids, bibliographic cross-references, indexes, etc., are the common links driving research projects. This has reinforced the view that there are two distinct but closely linked collections, hence the name given to both as the Historic Records Collection. The holdings of the library are accessible to all staff through a Departmental-wide computer system. Yet to date, it is primarily Site staff who use the library and the archives collections for research and operational needs. Parks Canada has not generally promoted the use of the collections to the public and specifically, researchers from other agencies and institutions. There is perceived to be a general unawareness of the substantial range of unpublished research materials in the collection. The library and archives collections have reached near full storage capacity in their current locations. 

The holdings are housed in two main locations, the library building in the compound and the basement of the administration building; however, there are smaller holdings in other buildings. For the archival holdings, proper storage environments and security systems do not exist. Further, no archives or library conservation plans exist, nor disaster plans, nor access and use procedures for staff and visitors.

Computerization and imaging are becoming increasingly important because they are improving the efficiency with which the records can be accessed and used by staff and others. It is important that a business-like approach be taken when considering information technology investments designed to improve program and service delivery. Revenue generation, partnerships and shared computerized open systems need to be considered as part of this approach.

Strategic Actions

• Parks Canada will secure, protect and make more available archival, library and in-house museum-type materials for staff and public use. Storage will be by media type protected by proper environmental and security control that best suits each particular format. Options are being explored to address the above needs for the library and archives.

• For the archival collection, an archives management or conservation plan will be included in the Cultural Resource Conservation Plan and will include elements such as a disaster plan, access and use procedures, environmental standards, etc. A final decision on the storage facility for the collections will have an impact on the timing of completing this information.

• The computerization and imaging of the collections will proceed using proven technology as resources permit.

• Site staff will encourage the public to access the library and archival collections. Genealogy, historical data and images are a few of the topics that would be of interest to the visitor.

• Parks Canada will explore partnership arrangements with such institutions and groups as the University College of Cape Breton and the Fortress of Louisbourg Volunteers to exploit the informational value of the collections.

• Site staff will pursue placing Fortress of Louisbourg on the information highway. User fees are quite acceptable on the network. Cost recovery and revenue generation will guide efforts in this area.

• The three most important policies that will guide Site staff in managing, conserving and using the library and archive collections are the Management of Information Holdings, the Management of Information Technology, and the General Records Disposal Schedule.

Since the beginning of the reconstruction project, Parks Canada has offered a variety of special events at the Site, most of them after regular visitor hours. These programs have offered opportunities to contribute directly to public appreciation of the messages and heritage resources of the Site. Past offerings have included candlelight tours, dinner concerts, baroque dance evening with period buffet, Musique Royale concerts of period music, tours with meals and entertainment, period cabarets, and historical encampments.

Events have also included tours on themes such as gardens, cooking, archaeology, and fortifications. In addition there have been special events associated with the Feast of St. Louis, Parks Day, Environment Week and Heritage Day. Off-site, Louisbourg staff have held and contributed to events such as fashion shows, musical entertainment and military displays.

In the past outside agencies funded many Fortress-initiated events. These events were planned as special interpretive enhancements rather than as revenue generators. All events were based on appropriate period activities and entertainment. The Fortress of Louisbourg Volunteers Association were the official sponsor for these events. Over the years Fortress-initiated special events have been reduced to the ones offered during regular visiting hours because of the expense. The Volunteers, however, still respond to requests from groups for after-hours meals, with a mini-tour or entertainment.

There is a continuing interest in the provision of special events at the Fortress, but due to financial constraints, Fortress staff are no longer in a position to carry any direct costs associated with evening events. Any future involvement by Fortress staff must be at least cost-recoverable or, more desirably, revenue-generating.

Given the popularity of evening events, the revenue-generating potential of making the Site available for public and private use after normal operating hours needs to be explored. Parks Canada's preference will be to host period events, but the use of facilities for modern events will be entertained.

There are policies that provide general direction for special events. Within their scope, the reconstructed townsite and fortifications can provide a very special atmosphere with innumerable opportunities for events which can increase an appreciation for and understanding of the past. The research base and the reconstructed townsite allow Parks Canada to provide unique, entertaining and educational experiences. At the same time, however, it is not necessary to be as restrictive in the approach to evening events as in the daytime animation program.

Strategic Actions

• Parks Canada will work with others to develop a variety of appropriate packages to respond to requests for after-hours events. These events packages should provide experiences which enhance public appreciation of the messages of the Site, and which are accurate, imaginative, and will recover costs or generate revenue.

• Requests for the use of facilities that have nil or minimal resource/staff impact, but may provide promotional opportunities, will be entertained on an individual basis. Uses which have greater impacts will be viewed on a cost-recoverable or revenue-generating basis.

• Fortress staff will work with others to explore ways to offer special events to the general public on an occasional basis.

Fortress of Louisbourg staff have a proud history of involving others in the operation of the Site. Among the many partners are the Fortress of Louisbourg Volunteers, the Louisbourg Institute, and the Unama'ki Committee. In addition, various arrangements have been in place to allow staff to discuss a number of common interests and possible partnerships with the community of Louisbourg.

Community of Louisbourg: Since the reconstruction of the Fortress began, the residents of Louisbourg, various community organizations and the municipal government have played a very important role in the evolution of the site. Over the years, the staff at Fortress of Louisbourg and community officials and residents have participated on a variety of formal and informal committees and agencies to discuss common interests. Many of these have been successful in providing a forum to air concerns and arrive at satisfactory solutions. Fortress employees have been involved with the Tourism, Planning, Recreation and Harbour Committees and have a history of cooperation with Louisbourg's heritage societies, the Volunteer Fire Department and other community groups to organize local events, undertake joint training and make improvements for the whole community.

The establishment of the Regional Municipality of Cape Breton has had a substantial impact on these cooperative arrangements, e.g. the Louisbourg District Planning and Development Commission no longer exists. Site staff recognize that there is a need to continue discussion with the community on various topics such as marketing, provision of services, sharing information and operational matters, to ensure potential partnerships are not missed. Staff are prepared to pursue discussions with community representatives to determine the most effective ways to reopen communication on common issues and areas of mutual interest.

Fortress of Louisbourg Volunteers: Since its beginnings in 1975, the Fortress of Louisbourg Volunteers, a registered nonprofit society, has helped the Site achieve a number of interpretive objectives. The Volunteers have contributed to costumed animation, particularly the children's program, the 18th century drum corps, and the militia. They have sponsored numerous special events, the most notable of which are the 18th century fashion shows. 

Members of the Volunteers have provided financial support for research projects and the development of new products such as high quality reproductions and souvenirs. They have assisted in the publication of books and articles, including the Fortress of Louisbourg guide book. They operate three period food service outlets, the military bakery, and two gift shops. The Volunteers provide employment for approximately 90 people.

Members of the Volunteers bring their particular skills and interests to a number of projects including evening events, films, involvement in Elder Hostel programs, archaeological excavations, collections maintenance, and Heritage Day. There are over 1,100 registered members of the Volunteer Association. Volunteers contributed over 12,000 hours of labour in 1997.

Louisbourg Institute: The Louisbourg Institute is a University College of Cape Breton (UCCB) institute formed in April 1995, in partnership with the Fortress of Louisbourg. The Institute works on mutually beneficial projects that utilize the strengths and resources of both organizations. Among the Institute achievements has been the publication of a book, Aspects of Louisbourg. It sponsored the 1995 Irish Cultural Symposium, and planned, implemented and published the proceedings of the 1995 "Cape Breton in Transition" Conference. The Institute has also been involved with staff in planning and developing a course outline for a Certificate Program in Heritage Presentation and Conservation. In 1996/97 there were an estimated 1,000 hours volunteered to the work of the Institute.

The Institute has also developed a large web page on the Internet which includes Parks Canada information, aimed at publicizing Fortress Louisbourg, providing a major data base of historical data, and bringing together Cape Breton heritage sites. 

The Unama'ki Committee: Established in 1994, the Unama'ki Committee is a working example of one way in which Parks Canada staff can work with Aboriginal people to achieve common goals. The guiding principle is that if Fortress staff are going to interpret Aboriginal history, the best way to do it is in partnership with Aboriginal people. The first project undertaken was the Mi'kmaq Trail, near the visitor centre, which interprets different aspects of Mi'kmaq history and culture. The Committee has made all decisions on the content of the Trail, and has selected Mi'kmaq interpreters to work on it. The Committee has also contributed to interpretive efforts at the Bell Museum at Baddeck, and at the Battery Provincial Park (adjacent to St. Peters Canal.) There is no formal document or protocol establishing the Unama'ki Committee. It exists as an alliance of shared interests and objectives, and is treated by both sides as a full and equal partnership. 

Guidelines: Parks Canada will encourage and foster a wide range of cooperative arrangements. Government agencies, interest groups, associations, adjacent landowners and educational institutions can make fundamental contributions to the Site. The private sector can play an important role by establishing and maintaining supportive and compatible business enterprises, contributing to both the Site's commemorative integrity and its visitor services.

Involving others will be based on the guidelines for implementing shared management at national historic sites, a direction reflected in Parks Canada's Business plan and operational policies. Partnerships will:

• not adversely impact the commemorative integrity of the Site;

• add value or a benefit;

• complement products and services already offered;

• be cost-effective;

• be based on formal agreements that clearly identify the responsibilities of all parties involved, including monitoring procedures.

Strategic Actions

• Site staff will initiate discussions with Louisbourg community representatives to identify effective arrangements for information sharing and discussing areas of common interest.

• Site staff will continue to work with the Fortress of Louisbourg Volunteers, the Louisbourg Institute, and the Unama'ki Committee in the provision and enhancement of programs and services.

• In addition, Site staff will encourage other potential partnerships with a variety of individuals and groups, including the private sector, to enhance commemorative integrity and visitor opportunities within and beyond the reconstructed townsite. This approach will help to ensure community support and long-term stability.

Since 1988-89, Parks Canada has been carrying out a marketing program for the national park and national historic sites in the Cape Breton District: Cape Breton Highlands, Fortress of Louisbourg, Alexander Graham Bell, Marconi, St. Peters Canal, and Grassy Island.

Research revealed that while the parks and sites are the primary attractions of Cape Breton's tourism industry, awareness of the scope and scale of the services and heritage experiences was low among visitors and regional residents. This condition was principally attributed to the means which Parks Canada was using to communicate with its current and potential users.

A marketing strategy was prepared with emphasis on improved communication activities. It was concluded that an increase in visitation was possible if selected segments, particularly residents of New England, the mid-Atlantic states and central Canada were targeted throughout their trip cycle. It was also concluded that park use patterns, lengths of stay, and appreciation and support for Parks Canada programming could be enhanced through improved communication activities.

The marketing concept has positioned the park and sites as a single touring attraction, encouraging visitors to experience all their diversity. Initial activities primarily focussed on reaching residents and visitors within Atlantic Canada. Partnerships with Enterprise Cape Breton Corporation (ecbc) and the province of Nova Scotia were subsequently initiated to reach longer-range markets.

The promotional program has been anchored by a lure brochure, a Vacation Planner, and a series of advertisements in regional magazines and newspapers. The Vacation Planner is a vital component of Cape Breton Island marketing activities.

A number of activities have been undertaken with ecbc including the production of posters, business reply cards for the Nova Scotia Travel Guide, shared advertisements for major publications, and research and evaluation studies. ecbc and the Fortress cooperate on a regular basis for the organization of media tours, tourism and trade fairs, and special events.

Since 1993, a more strategic approach has been taken with greater emphasis placed on pre-trip information distribution, on key entry points and tourism information centres. Parks Canada has an arrangement with Tourism Cape Breton for the distribution of materials, although the bulk of Vacation Planners are distributed through a 1-800 number. In addition, a greater emphasis has also been placed on targeting the travel media sector, particularly in the United States.

A number of factors will continue to influence the direction of the marketing strategy including:

• enhanced cooperation with Parks Canada marketing staff throughout Atlantic Canada;

• primary markets include those from Nova Scotia, Atlantic Canada, Ontario, Quebec, the northeastern United States, and to a lesser extent Europe and Asia. Within these markets, there are specific segments that include couples travelling without children, families, seniors, bus tours, educational groups and special interest groups;

• more emphasis on the travel trade industry and travel media, and the tourism industry;

• enhancement of revenue generation and fee opportunities;

• new opportunities to exploit the cross-marketing potential between traditional Parks Canada products with Cape Breton's culture and heritage;

• a need to promote the mandate of Parks Canada and Site-specific heritage messages through enhancing awareness and understanding of commemorative and ecological integrity, and public stewardship responsibilities;

• monitoring of market trends and visitor needs and expectations, particularly in the areas of heritage learning experiences and sustainable tourism.

An update of Parks Canada's Cape Breton Island Marketing Plan has recently been completed. It will provide marketing direction for several years.
   

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