Uncertainty Surrounds Historic Properties

Local residents, municipal officials, and historical organizations are still seeking clarity regarding the future of two provincial heritage locations slated for divestment. Despite the growing concerns, provincial authorities state that no final determinations have been made.

Local Initiatives in Doaktown

During a July village council meeting in Doaktown, elected officials, area residents, and members of the Central Miramichi Historical Society voiced frustration over the absence of progress reports regarding the Doak Provincial Historic Site. In response, local stakeholders formed the Doak Heritage Community Group to analyze options for the location. This committee includes Coun. Scott Chappell, Valerie O’Donnell, Belva Brown, Morris Green, Glen Harding, April Carroll, Jenny Chappell, Julie Lyons, and Krista Chase, who serves as the regional economic development director for the Greater Miramichi Service Commission.

MacDonald Farm Operations

Uncertainty also affects the MacDonald Farm Provincial Heritage Place located in Lower Newcastle. John McKay, president of the Highland Society of New Brunswick at Miramichi, noted that his organization has not received updates since being notified of the province’s divestment intentions. The Highland Society previously operated the property on behalf of the province but ceased operations last year, citing financial challenges. The provincial grant for the site had reverted to $60,000—a figure unchanged since 2012, aside from a single $40,000 top-up provided in 2024—which the group indicated was insufficient to cover rising operational expenses.

While the Holt government outlined plans earlier this year to divest several provincial properties to decrease expenditures, MacDonald Farm was already closed prior to the announcement. “We still haven’t heard a word from the province since we were informed that it planned to divest MacDonald Farm,” said McKay.