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Historic Courtroom
This courtroom was the site of many famous legal dramas during the past century, including bank robberies, cattle-rustling and murder.
Completely refurbished in 1981, the 4-1/2 foot high dado paneling in the courtroom has been hand grained to simulate oak. The process, carried out by Bradford Forsyth of Millville, Kings County, was begun by first stripping off the many layers of paint applied over the years. The trim and paneling was then covered with a base coat of white paint, followed by a coat of stain. The stain was “grained” with the skillful use of various pieces of cloth and metal combs resulting in the paneling taking on the appearance of natural grain.
Mr. Forsyth’s art work contains cleverly camouflaged images of animals in the pattern of the grain. Rabbits, bears, goats and fish are among the figures to be found in the beautifully refurbished woodwork.
New England Planters
In 1755 the Acadians were expelled from Acadia, and forced to leave their homes, livestock, and all their possessions behind. Three years later, in 1758, Governor Charles Lawrence issued a proclamation to the people of New England inviting them to settle the fertile Nova Scotian farmlands left vacant following the expulsion of the Acadians. By 1768, approximately 8000 New Englanders, known as the “Planters” had made the move.
To commemorate this history, the Kings County Museum in conjunction with Parks Canada has established a National Commemorative Exhibit to the New England Planters.
Summer Through the Decades
An exhibition highlighting the colours, fabrics, and silhouettes that defined the summertime in years past. From the soft lines and muted tones of the early 1900s to the sharper tailoring and richer palettes of the later 20th century, this collection captures changes in style across seven decades.
These garments— once worn by women in Kings County— reflect evolving ideas about elegance, practicality, and personal expression. Many look nothing like what we wear today, offering a glimpse into how fashion moves with the seasons, the times, and the expectations placed on women’s appearance.Take a closer look at how women’s fashion has shifted over time in “Summer Through the Decades,” an exhibition highlighting the colours, fabrics, and silhouettes that defined the summertime in years past. From the soft lines and muted tones of the early 1900s to the sharper tailoring and richer palettes of the later 20th century, this collection captures changes in style across seven decades.
Court in Session: Crime and Justice in Kings County
This exhibition uses historic artifacts from our collection to explore the story of justice in Kings County. From handcuffs and legal documents to photographs and a judge’s robe, these pieces offer a glimpse into how law enforcement and the court system have changed over time.
Also featured are several true crime stories from our local history— cases that once had the whole community talking. These stories reveal the human side of crime and show how our ideas of right and wrong have evolved.
As you explore the people, events, and decisions that helped shape our justice system, we invite you to reflect on how the meaning of justice continues to change— even today.
HARBOURVILLE: A History
COMING SOON
