Monday, July 13

Next stop Louisbourg, the location of the famous fortress. After finding a campsite at the Mira Provincial Park we headed to the fortress and spent the last hour of their day taking a quick peek and witnessing the final cannon shooting ceremony. Fifes and drums and a very loud bang. Wonderful. Plan is to go for the entire day tomorrow.

Tuesday, July 14

Today we spent the entire day from opening to closing at the Louisbourg Fortress. This wonderful place was built by and occupied by the French during the 1700.  It was a port primarily used for trade, principally for the cod caught locally. Louisbourg had to trade for nearly everything else for their use. 









The English fought for and took the fort twice during this period. It was not easy to defend against the warships and superior manpower. Each time the French reclaimed the area because of treaties. The last time the English destroyed most of the fort leaving nothing but foundations. However, the record-keeping regarding the layout and construction was so good that it was rebuilt in the 60s to replicate the original fortress. The area is very large but represents only 1/5 the original size. 

The best part was the people who dressed and authentically acted out the roles of the soldiers and other occupants of the fortress. They told fascinating stories of their life. 

Can you tell we learned a lot and had a great time?