New Brunswick Museum, Saint John

Established in 1842, the New Brunswick Museum stands as Canada's oldest operating museum. Initially named the Gesner's Museum of Natural History after its founder, Dr. Abraham Gesner, the institution aimed to be a science museum focusing on natural history, geology, and paleontology.

In 1929, the museum underwent a name change to The Provincial Museum following the New Brunswick Museum Act. By 1930, it adopted its current name, the New Brunswick Museum. Officially opened in 1996 by The Prince of Wales, Prince Charles, this three-storey stone building rejuvenated the museum's public appeal, tripling annual visitors to an impressive range of 76,000 to 101,000.

The Market Square location serves as a modern display venue with a gift shop and a small theatre. The museum's commitment to showcasing New Brunswick's rich past is evident in its diverse collections, which span art, natural sciences, and historical artifacts. With over 300,000 specimens, some of which are among the oldest in Canada, the New Brunswick Museum has become a repository of the province's unique and varied history.

The museum's purpose extends beyond mere display, with a focus on preservation and restoration. Many artifacts have undergone restoration efforts to ensure their longevity and continued relevance. Acadian, British, and Native cultures feature prominently in exhibits, reflecting the province's rich cultural tapestry.