The Pictou-North Colchester Exhibition grounds have been a community gathering place for more than 130 years, and now the park will have improved accessibility for visitors and exhibitors for years to come with the government’s $200,000 investment through the Community Economic Development Fund.
The revitalization project will fix many existing issues at the site owned by the Pictou Agricultural Society in Pictou County, including finishing work on a new 12-by-52-metre multi-purpose barn that will provide new flexibility to host different types of livestock events and community programming year-round.
Justin Shaw, President of the Pictou Agricultural Society, says, “These projects will help us continue to host agricultural events and bring our community together for years to come. We appreciate the Province’s support and its investment in rural communities like ours.”
The new barn is called the Elwood and Mary Fraser Memorial Building and will replace the former beef barn. The modern facility will also feature removeable walls to help create customizable spaces for events like 4-H competitions and horse shows.
According to government officials, Elwood and Mary Fraser were dedicated supporters of the agricultural society and longtime volunteers at the exhibition; as a board member and contractor, it was Mr. Fraser’s vision to build the new barn, and he organized several fundraisers.
There will also be upgrades to the Kinsman Building, light horse barn, and dining hall to make the site more accessible, functional, and welcoming.
Energy Minister Marco MacLeod, MLA for Pictou West, says, “Investing in these grounds means investing in our community – supporting local traditions, strengthening rural connections, and making sure this important gathering place can continue to serve people in Pictou County for years to come.”
