Kings Landing
New Brunswick
Kings Landing is a unique living history museum located near Fredericton, New Brunswick, that preserves and presents rural life in the region from 1820 to 1920. It features more than a dozen original buildings salvaged from various locations around the Mactaquac headpond and other parts of New Brunswick, carefully restored to reflect specific historical periods. The site is not a replica of a single village but a curated collection that represents the cultural and architectural heritage of early settlers, including Anglo-American Loyalists, Scottish, Irish, and English immigrants. Visitors experience hands-on demonstrations and period activities led by knowledgeable costumed interpreters who bring history to life through crafts, cooking, and trades such as blacksmithing, carpentry, and printing. The settlement includes farms, workshops, a church, schools, and a working gristmill and sawmill, complete with livestock that serves both educational and practical purposes. Special events and workshops throughout the year deepen visitor engagement with historical reenactments and traditional crafts. Kings Landing offers a rich, immersive glimpse into 19th-century rural life in New Brunswick, making it a compelling destination for history enthusiasts and families alike.
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Tip: Visit Kings Landing during the main season from June to October for the full experience, including special events that recreate historical moments. Booking tickets or season passes in advance is recommended, especially for popular weekends and workshops. The museum encourages visitor participation in demonstrations and debates, enhancing the interactive experience. Allow ample time to explore the extensive grounds and attend workshops like candle making and woodworking. Nearby Fredericton is the closest city for accommodations and dining options.
Interesting facts
- •Kings Landing is not an actual historic village but a collection of original buildings moved and restored from various locations around New Brunswick.
- •The living museum includes working farms with livestock such as horses, oxen, chickens, and cows that provide practical contributions like milk and eggs.
- •Costumed interpreters perform crafts and trades authentic to the 19th century, including blacksmithing, printing, and carpentry.
- •Special events include historical reenactments such as the Confederation Debate featuring actors portraying key figures in Canadian history.
- •The site was created to save buildings from being submerged by the Mactaquac Dam reservoir.
History
Kings Landing was conceived in 1967 as part of the Mactaquac Historical Program to preserve cultural heritage threatened by the construction of the Mactaquac Dam.
The site opened unofficially in 1971 and officially in 1974.
It was established by relocating and restoring original buildings from the surrounding area to create a living history museum representing rural New Brunswick from the 19th and early 20th centuries.
The site has expanded over the decades with new buildings and exhibits added regularly.
Notably, Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip visited in 1976, highlighting its cultural significance.
Place Guide
Welcome Centre
The main entrance and visitor hub offering information, tickets, and orientation about the settlement.
Heritage Gallery
Exhibition space featuring artifacts and displays about the history and culture of New Brunswick's rural communities.
The Joslin Farm19th century
An authentic 19th-century farmstead with original buildings, demonstrating period farming techniques and livestock management.
The Blacksmith Shop19th century
A working blacksmith's forge where visitors can observe traditional metalworking and tool making.
The Print Shop19th century
Historic print shop demonstrating letterpress printing techniques used in the 1800s.
St. Mark's Church (Anglican)19th century
A restored Anglican church representing religious life in rural New Brunswick during the 19th century.
King's Head Inn Restaurant & Pub
Historic-style inn offering meals and refreshments in a period atmosphere, enhancing the visitor experience.
Contact
Phone: (506) 363-4999