Page 65 - Mighty Miramichi River Guide 2023

Seamen’s Hospital: A Marine Hospital

and National Historic Site of Canada

Nestled among the operating and upkeep of
trees on the banks of the the property is solely done
Miramichi River in through various events
Douglastown is one of organized by the volunteer
Miramichi’s little known staff, through rental of the
gems. This charming building for various events
building is a National such as weddings,
Historic Site of Canada. retirements, birthdays,
Built in 1830 by the Port cultural events, dances and
of Miramichi, it is the so on.
oldest surviving marine This year we are
hospital in Canada. It planning a quilt show in
was financed through a tax the summer, an open
on shipping tonnage and house tour in August, and
for nearly 100 years it occasional tours of the
provided care for sick or building by appointment.
disabled seamen who had In late September, apple
no family in the area, and were mostly involved in the timber pies will be made and sold (must be pre-ordered). In late
trade. The design and structure of the building is composed October, turkey pies will be made and sold (must be pre-
of local sandstone with a roof line capped by a distinctive ordered) dependent on product costs to make sure this is still
cupola, which are all reflective of the architectural style that viable as a fund raiser. The Annual Christmas Craft Sale
was popular in the early 19th century of British North will be held in early November. The Miramichi Fiddlers
America. will again have their November Fiddle-Doo and Potluck
It served as a hospital providing health service to Supper–stay tuned for the date. The popular Friends of
mariners until 1921, after which it was used for various health Seamen's Hospital Craft Group has been re-established for
related activities. It was sold to St. Samuel’s Roman Catholic Wednesdays 9am to 3pm.
Church thereafter and used as a church hall until late 1980’s. We love the building and its heritage in the community
In 1990, it came up for sale and it was feared the building and want it to live on. New members are always welcome.
would be demolished. The historical significance of the For more information and updates find ‘Seamen’s
building was recognized by a group of local historians and Hospital Miramichi’ on Facebook and look to Giv’er
the site became the property of Miramichi Heritage, Inc. magazine for our events. The Seamen’s Hospital is located
A commemorative plaque was placed on the lawn at 12 Vye Street, Miramichi (Douglastown).
between the flag poles in 2000 designating this building as a
National Historic Site. Miramichi Heritage Inc. is proud to Seamen’s Hospital decorated for a wedding.
have been instrumental in saving it for this distinction.
Since 2017 much needed renovations were made to the
hall. Foundation work, replacement of all windows and
doors, and stonework were repaired as a result of fundraising
by its members, and financial assistance from the Federal,
Provincial and local governments. This update will secure
many more years of life for the building and provide for its
use by the community.
Currently Miramichi Heritage Inc., also known as
Seamen’s Hospital, offers activities for seniors, youth and
folks of all ages and is used as a gathering place in the
community. Many see the value of such a stately building
and the heritage and value it has in the community. All

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