Membertou Museum B

Abstract

In this case, students are introduced to the community of Membertou. In 1999, the chief and council faced criticism from band members asserting they were neglecting culture and identity for community economic initiates. In response, a museum project was suggested. After finding that the proposed facility was not economically feasible, the chief and council decided not to invest in the project. Instead, they invested in an Elders Oral Knowledge Project which collected documents and information that told of the history of Membertou. By 2005, Membertou’s band operations were starting to be profitable, the community was looking into acquiring more land for development, and the local tourism industry was growing. Band members were still asking for facilities to be built that would support cultural activities and display the collected historical materials. In response to their continued interest in a cultural facility and the improved economic conditions, chief and council revisited the notion of a community museum and attempted to find a viable alternative.