Moving Images Annapolis Basin

Compiled by Ernest J. Dick

Table of Contents:

Recommendations for the Moving Images of the Annapolis Basin:  28

Introduction

The Annapolis Basin has invited wonder and delight for locals and visitors throughout time. Thus, the motion picture camera has been brought here to document the geography, the people, and the events of this area for almost 100 years. For my part, I have been delighting in and sporadically researching the moving images of the Annapolis Basin, in my almost 40 years of coming here.   

This inventory is a systematic compilation of all these leads and observations.  It remains a work in progress and further references, and certainly corrections on the references here included, are most welcome.

Moving images include all film, video, dramatic or documentary representations, news coverage, amateur home-based film and video; shot for entertainment, educational, or promotional purposes. “Moving images” is the term of the archival community, using film and video to be used as specific references to the medium that the moving images were recorded onto.

The Annapolis Basin, for the purposes of this compilation has been extended as far east as the county of Annapolis extends to Wilmot; and west beyond the county line, including Digby and immediate surrounding area.  The prominent geographical feature of the Annapolis Basin so long determining economic, transportation and communications links has been followed for this compilation.

History of the Moving Images of the Annapolis Basin

Moving images came to the Annapolis Basin in the first decade of the 20th century and my research continues on the first showings of the new medium. We know that scheduled film screenings were being advertised in Digby from 1909 and Annapolis Royal from 1911 on and expect that Bridgetown and Middleton would have had similar venues for the showing of film from this same era. Many of our early film venues have burned over the years, with the earliest surviving confirmed film theatre being King’s Theatre, dating from 1921.

The first time that we can confirm that film cameras came to the Annapolis Basin was in the summer of 1913 when scenes for Canada’s first feature-length dramatic film, “Evangeline” were filmed at Fort Anne. Only a few stills, newspaper accounts and advertisements survive from this ambitious venture by the Halifax-based Canadian Bioscope Company. Similarly, the earliest documentary footage shot by Frederick William Wallace of his voyage in 1916 of his voyage from the Annapolis Basin to the Grand Banks (before Robert Flaherty’s “Nanook of the North” considered the beginning of documentary film) has been lost. Wallace tells us in great detail of the making of “Seaman Courageous” in his memoir and together with the recently publication of his photos in “Camera on the Banks” by Brooke Taylor one can almost reconstruct what this documentary might have shown those attending the reported screening at the Bijou Dream in Digby.

For the 1920’s we begin to have film survive from newsreel companies, federal government projects and private projects. Most notable and lovely are the visits to Annapolis Royal in “The Capital of Acadia” of 1921 and the visits to the western end of the Annapolis Basin in “Mid Sunshine and Sea Breezes” of 1926 by Canadian government commissioned camera men. Alexander Leighton, the cultural psychiatrist also began his documentation of our peoples in the 1920’s that continued through to the 1960’s with a substantial, and largely unknown, collection surviving at the provincial archives.

Film projects remained expensive and rare through-out the 1930’s and 1940’s until the creation of the Nova Scotia Film Bureau, with the advent of promotional films that inevitably visited the Annapolis Basin. This inventory only includes those titles confirmed as including footage of the Annapolis Basin, though there are many from this era where the titles suggest that they could include local footage, but have not yet been viewed, or may not even survive. Also in the late 1940’s Betty Lewis took her 16 mm camera out onto the streets of Bridgetown creating the exceptional document , “Betty’s Bridgetown” (catalogued, indexed, copied and narrated on video by the Bridgetown Historical Society).

Moving image documentation of everything, everywhere in North America, exploded in the 1950’s with the advent of television (CHSJ in Saint John beginning in March and CBHT in Halifax in December of 1954) and the availability of 8mm home movie cameras. Television was often live in its first decades with very little programming surviving, but news and documentary film footage began to be shot of our area in the 1950’s particularly of special events. Cataloguing and preservation was random, varying greatly from station to station, and from reporter to reporter.

Home movies have been included here, when they are known, but undoubtedly much more such 8mm and super8 mm footage is still held privately. A small proportion has been transferred to VHS or DVD formats over the years by families but remains vulnerable because of the limitations of the transfer technologies and the inherent vulnerability of the film itself. Home movie formats were almost always reversal stocks, meaning that no negatives ever existed; and when the original processed film shrunk, was chewed up by projectors, or was lost, no further copies existed. Thus the most urgent and important suggestion arising from this project is the recommendation for a comprehensive and collaborative project with local museums and archives to identify and preserve such home movie documentation of the Annapolis Basin.

The advent of videotape for television in the 1970’s, and then for the home consumer in the 1980’s, further multiplied this proliferation of the moving image, but also complicates the preservation and accessibility of such moving image documentation. Video tape could be erased and re-recorded, compounding the loss and cataloguing of moving image documentation. Also, the multiplicity of incompatible videotape formats for both broadcast and home video formats further complicates playing tapes even when they do survive. This proliferation and complexity of moving image documentation surviving for the future will be further compounded by the advent of digital technologies.

The relative abundance of CBC moving image documentation relative to private broadcasting reflects both the CBC practice of covering more local stories, and also CBC improving archival practice over the past 2 decades. It has not been feasible within the scope of this project to view and identify all CBC footage and thus only CBC regional and network programs focussed on the Annapolis Basin have been identified separately. Private television programming and news coverage of our area may well survive in private hands and un-catalogued; and thus could not be researched for this project. I look forward to hearing of such leads and following up on them.

Parameters

Prior to 1950 an attempt has been made with this inventory to identify all footage that is known to have been shot, so that all references and potential leads can be brought together for further research.  Because of the proliferation of the moving image after 1950 this inventory only lists materials known to survive and be accessible in public institutions.

Similarly 1950 is the point after which most of our moving images are in colour with  accompanying sound   Sound accompanying film is possible from the early 1930’s with colour beginning in the late 1930’s, though both remain relatively rare, and expensive until the 1950’s.  Thus, this inventory specifies colour film prior to 1950, and only black and white film after 1950.  Equally for sound, entries are assumed to be silent prior to 1950, and with accompanying sound after 1950.

Research will be continuing on the moving images of the Annapolis Basin but this inventory has a cut-off point of December 31st, 2007. 

Accessibility

Accessibility for all entries has been indicated as far as possible with the following abbreviations:

  • AVRL - Annapolis Valley Regional Libraries
  • LAC - Library and Archives Canada – Ottawa
  • NFB - National Film Board – Montreal  (all NFB productions can be ordered through the NFB in Montreal, with the best regional collection held at the Halifax Regional Library)
  • NSARM - Nova Scotia Archives and Records Management – Halifax  (Their inventory of moving images of Nova Scotia to 1973, “Eastern Eye” was published in 2000 and a reference point for this inventory.  It is also available online at http://www.gov.ns.ca/nsarm/databases/easterneye/ but does not contain all of their moving image holdings which can be researched through their in-house database at the Public Archives of Nova Scotia building.  Discrepancies between this inventory and Eastern Eye  represent corrections that have been possible through the further research undertaken for this inventory.
  • WCRL - Western Counties Regional Libraries

Availability for viewing of any of these references usually requires advance notice and appointments. Coping similarly requires advance notice, often with appropriate permissions required and the payment of costs for copying. 

I certainly have not viewed all the references included here, but have accumulated a substantial body of reference copies, as indicated. My personal research copies cannot be leant out but I look forward to presenting them however, and whenever, anyone is interested.

Conclusions

Two conclusions arise from this project, both with equal urgency and importance. 

  • The urgency of viewing and cataloguing footage while we still have people available who can recall who and what we are seeing is obvious and cannot be delayed.  Otherwise lovely footage may survive, as we have for the 1920’s and 1930’s, with only remote possibility of ever identifying what we have. 
  • This ongoing research has brought to light collections in private hands not accessible to the public and vulnerable to time.  A comprehensive shared-cost program converting historically significant footage for donors, and depositing originals in local museums, will ensure the survival and accessibility of neglected and deteriorating moving image documentation.

We have a fascinating and wide-ranging heritage of moving image documentation and representation of the Annapolis Basin over the past century.  However, we will lose this heritage if we cannot become more active in its preservation and accessibility.

Recommendations for further work are included with particular listings and also brought together at the conclusion of this inventory.  I look forward to any opportunity to move forward on these initiatives and will continue to enjoy and research the moving images of our community.

Acknowledgements

This project was possible because of the financial support from County of Annapolis, the constant encouragement from Ryan Scranton at the Annapolis Heritage Society, and the  Historical Association of Annapolis Royal.  Doug Kirby at CBC Halifax, Sheryl Stanton at the Admiral Digby Museum, Sherry Griffin at the MacDonald Museum, and Theresa Bunbury at Parks Canada have long been helpful in making their holdings available to me. Thanks also to Patricia Milner reference librarian with the Annapolis Valley Regional Libraries for confirming library holdings for many of these listings.

Before 1920

“A Trip through the Annapolis Valley” – 1913

Promotional travelogue produced for the Dominion Atlantic Railway.

This travelogue apparently promotes tourism to the Annapolis valley but does not appear to have survived.

(Eastern Eye # 11)

“Evangeline” - 1914

Dramatic feature film (tinted and toned ) by the Canadian Bioscope Company, based in Halifax, shot in Dartmouth, Grande Pre, and Annapolis Royal, in 1913 and released in Halifax in 1914. 

This production directed by Captain H. H. B. Holland, previously from the Anglo-American Film Company of London, England who also was the President and founder of the Canadian Bioscope Company, and  photographed by H. T. Oliver, an American who had worked for the Edison company, is considered Canada’s first feature-length dramatic film.  Marguerite Marquis wrote the scenario and acted with Laura Lyman (Evangeline), John T. Carleton (Gabriel), E. P. Sullivan (Father Felician), Michael Hannafy (Evangeline’s father, Benedict Bellefontaine), W. A. Cavanagh (as the notary), Arthur Morrison (as Basil the blacksmith, William J. Johnson  Francis Purcell and Glad Gillan from the United States.  They did use local talent, notably R. J. Leary, portraying Michael the fiddler and Rhea Rafuse, portraying an Acadian maiden.

(For this film a research file has been assembled by EJD consisting of 2 stills, a flyer searching for the film, newspaper articles, and advertisements.   The article by EJD, “In Search of the Canadian Evangeline” in River Review/Revue Riviere, # 3, 1997, published by the University of Maine at Fort Kent is the best published discussion of this film.  No traces exist for this film beyond the single projection print last shown in May of 1914 in Regina.  A 1929 early sound film by United Artists, starring Dolores Del Rio, of the same title does survive and is available for purchase as a DVD & EJD VHS copy.  Also, Twentieth Century Fox were planning to re-make the film in 1952, and may have actually shot some footage at Grand Pre, but this version was never completed. Eastern Eye # 9)

“Seamen Courageous”&Բ; - 1916

Documentary photographed by Frederick William Wallace.

This documentary documents Wallace’s trip on the “Dorothy G. Snow”, captained by Ansel Snow from Digby in March, 1916 showing winter fishing on the Banks.  It cost $5,000 to produce and consisted of 3,000 feet of film.  It was show at the Bijou Dream in Digby, and to an audience of movie producers and cameramen at Lowe’s State Theatre in New York City, 1922, but was said to be lost by Wallace.

(See the biography of Frederick William Wallace, The Roving Fisherman,  pp. 288 - 309 and  “Making a Movie of Winter Fishing” by Frederick William Wallace in Fishing Gazette April, 1922, pp. 36-38 for further descriptions.  Eastern Eye # 19)

Dan Owen Labrador Expedition - 1919

Documentary of the expedition of Dan Owen from Annapolis Royal taken in the summer of 1919

Footage apparently included the fitting out of the steamer, Granville, scenes in the Garrison, presentation by Mayor Atlee, departure of the steamer with bands and flag and scenes taken in Labrador.

(Footage does not appear to survive with only reference being December 4th, 1919 description in the Spectator)

1920’s

Annapolis Royal Celebrations - 1921

Newsreel coverage by British Canadian Pathe newsreel company.

Stories include unveiling of plaques at Fort Anne; commemorating 1721 court; Thomas Chandler Haliburton; designation of Fort Anne as Canada’s first historic park; and the opening of the Granville – Annapolis Bridge.

 (Available at LAC # V42007-05-0037(3) & EJD DVD copy; Eastern Eye # 56 & 68)

“The Capital of Acadia” - 1921

Documentary/promotional film by Department of the Interior, Government of Canada

This film shows the houses on upper St. George Street, the steam train arriving at the station, oxen on upper St. George Street, and explorations of fortifications at Fort Anne.

(Available at LAC master 2007-05-0037(3)  & EJD DVD copy; Eastern Eye #
73)

“Blue Water” - 1922

Dramatic feature length film by Ernest Shipman, starring Norma Shearer, Pierre Gendron and Jane Thomas,  filmed at Chance Harbour, outside of Saint John.

Based on the novel of the same name by Frederick William Wallace, published in 1913.  This story was set in a Bay of Fundy village in the Hillsburne vicinity with filming aboard the schooner of Captain Ansel Snow of Digby.  Financial difficulties delayed completion until April 1924 when it was screened in Saint John, and a few other maritime centres, but thereafter lost and never seen again.

(The novel Blue Water is available in a re-issue published by Formac Publishing, with an introduction by Brook Taylor.  Also see The Roving Fisherman the memoir by Frederick William Wallace for references to the making of this film.)

“Mid Sunshine and Sea Breezes” – 1926

Documentary/promotional film by Canadian Government Motion Picture Bureau

Includes views of Digby (main street and fish drying), Digby Pines Hotel. Point Prim Lighthouse, Digby Gut,  Bear River, Smith’s Cove, Clementsport, and French shore.

(Available from NFB  & EJD DVD; Eastern Eye # 122)

Jefferson Family Home Movies – 1928-29

Home movie documentation of activities from summer family visits

Footage includes the unveiling of Vetch Monument at Fort Anne on 22 September, 1928 and includes documentation of family farm in Bear River area.

Footage also includes family activities in the US and requires shot-listing to   identify people and locations

(Held by Ann McKeen or LAC # 8610-57; Eastern Eye # 133)

“Life of the Beaver” – 1929

Documentary by Alexander Leighton, Professor of Social Psychiatry at Cornell University and long-time summer resident of Smith’s Cove.

A documentary about the habits of the beaver; and the effects of 
the beaver's lifestyle on other forms of wildlife

(Available from NSARM;  Eastern Eye # 143)

Scottish Celebrations - 1929

MGM newsreel coverage

Coverage of 1929 celebrations at Fort Anne,

(Available from LAC master – V4 2007-05-0037(3) & EJD DVD; Eastern Eye # 74)

1930’s

Indian Carnival Days - 1934

Documentary shot and edited by Edward Bollinger, summer visitor and eventually permanent resident of Halifax.

Story begins with young couple reading about Indian Carnival in Bear River and deciding to attend. Scenes of various M’kmaq sporting events, a historical pageant, etc, largely shot at Fort Anne. The story ends with young couple becoming enchanted with M’kmaq festivities and dancing around a fire going “native”.

(Available at NSARM  & EJD VHS reference copy; Eastern Eye # 219)

Henderson Family Home Movies – 1936

Home movie footage of a trip to southwestern Nova Scotia

Footage includes scenes of Annapolis Royal and Fort Anne

(Available at NSARM; Eastern Eye # 254

"From Sea to Sea” - 1936

Documentary by Associated Screen News production for Canadian Pacific Railway.

Production showing a trip across Canada with Annapolis Basin footage consisting of brief views of the Digby Pines Hotel from Annapolis Basin and from the grounds; and brief views from deck of ferry sailing towards the Digby gut.

(Available at LAC # 188595 Eastern Eye # 278)

"Porpoise Oil” - 1936

Documentary by Alexander Leighton, Professor of Social Psychiatry at Cornell University and long-time summer resident of Smith’s Cove.

This film re-creates the porpoise hunt enacted by the Mi’kmaq people of the Bear River area on the Bay of Fundy and the subsequent rendering of the carcasses into oil. The oil was sold by the Mi’kmaq to various local businesses for a time; but the practice died out when there was no longer any market for the product.

(Available for lending from WCRL; Available for viewing at Bear River Cultural and at NSARM; Eastern Eye # 263, 267 & 269)

1940’s

Betty’s Bridgetown - 1940’s

Documentation (some in colour but mainly B & W) by Betty Lewis of Bridgetown.

Betty Lewis systematically documented every house, and every family in Bridgetown in this footage which was compiled on VHS tape and catalogued by the Bridgetown Centennial Committee and the Bridgetown & Area Historical Society, narrated  Danny Harlow, in 1997

(Available for lending from AVRL;  Also VHS tape together with scene by scene and alphabetical index was available for sale from Bridgetown Town Hall with many long-time residents undoubtedly retaining copies & EJD reference copy).

Merkel Family Home Movies – 1940’s – 1950’s

Colour family home movie footage  shot by Andrew Merkel.

Andrew Merkel purchased a summer home at Brow Hill in Lower Granville and from that point shot family activities on this property

(Available at LAC; also held by Barry Moody on DVD; Eastern Eye # 475, # 487)

“Down by the Sea” – 1940’s

Documentary / travelogue produced by Associated Screen News for Canadian Pacific Railway

Views of tourist attractions in the Maritimes, including brief views of the Habitation at Port Royal with 2 unidentified guides interpreting the site.

(Available at LAC # 301415 & 2001-03-0019; Eastern Eye # 389)

Day, Grant:  Home Movies – 1942/43

Family footage shot by Grant Day.

Views of visit to Annapolis Royal, includes views of Runciman House and Queen Hotel (currently Queen Anne Inn),

(Available at LAC # 27177 , # V1 8608-0092 & V1 2002-06-0025)

“Glimpses of New Scotland” - 1947

 Documentary / travelogue produced by Fitzpatrick Traveltalk,

Includes view of Habitation at Port Royal and the port of Digby

(Eastern Eye # 591)

“Highland Holiday” - 1947

Documentary / travelogue produced by Crawley Films for National Film Board and National Park Branch, directed and photographed by Grant Crabtree.

Apparently includes views of Port Royal.

(Held by LAC but no consultation copy currently available; Eastern Eye # 694.)

“Motoring in the Maritimes” - 1947

Colour travelogue produced by Shelly Films for Imperial Oil.

Apparently includes view of Port Royal.

Held by LAC  # 332162 but no consultation copy currently available; Eastern Eye # 674).

“Peoples of the Maritime:  the Acadians” - 1947

Colour documentary produced by Crawley Films for NFB, Province of Nova Scotia and Canadian Geographical Society.

This title apparently including views of the Habitation at Port Royal.   

(Held at LAC # ISN 309107 but no consultation copy currently available; Eastern Eye # 648)

“When all the People Play”&Բ; - 1948

Documentary directed and produced by Evelyn Cherry of the NFB for the Canadian Department of National Health and Welfare,

Documentary tells the story of community recreation programs in and around Annapolis Royal with views of many locations and people.  It features Bobby Potts, the newly appointed Recreation Director.

(Available from NFB # 106B 0148 065 & EJD reference copy.  Also as far as possible all people and locations seen in the film were identified in 1998 as a 50th anniversary project and are held in an EJD research file; Eastern Eye # 704).

“This is Nova Scotia” - 1948

Travelogue, produced by Margaret Perry for Nova Scotia Department of Trade and Industry.        

Includes brief views of shucking of scallops, Digby Gut, Habitation at Port Royal, and Fort Anne. 

(Available at NSARM; Eastern Eye # 708)

Wood, Eric: Home Movies - 1948

Home movie footage taken by Eric Wood.

Apparently this footage consisted of coverage of 1948 Natal Day Festivities

(Shown in Annapolis Royal in September, 1948, but survival is unknown)

1950’s

Alexander Leighton: Digby County Documentation – 1950’s / 1960’s

83 reels of 16 mm silent footage shot by Alexander Leighton, Professor of Social Psychiatry at Cornell University and long-time summer resident of Smith’s Cove.

This colour footage (@ 15 hours) has been visually identified and includes a wide variety of activities in and around the Digby area, including Maude and Everett Lewis, logging, fishing, etc.  Some appears to be associated with Leighton’s Stirling County report on mental illness and a documentary of the same title.

(Held at NSARM, with some reels copied onto videocassette formats and available for viewing at NSARM; Eastern Eye # 789 – 808, 817 – 826, 829, 1582,  1679. 1689, 1738 & 1739, 1753 & 1754, 1799 and 1878.  This footage needs now to be systematically viewed and catalogued while personalities and locations seen can still be identified – see Recommentations)              

Annapolis Royal  - CBC News Coverage - 1950’s

B & W News footage shot by CBC

Events that are documented include the 350th anniversary celebrations of 1955,

(Held at CBC Broadcast Library – Halifax)

“WRENS Back in the Navy at Cornwallis” – 1952

Newsreel by Hearst Metrotone News

Availability and contents are unknown

(Eastern Eye # 877)

“Maritime Holiday” – 1953

Travelogue of maritime scenes by Benoit de Tonnacour for the Canadian Travel Bureau.

Apparently includes footage of golfing at Pines Hotel in Digby and visit to the Port Royal Habitation

(Available from NFB;  Eastern Eye” # 879 & 924)

“Old, New Scotland” - 1954

Documentary produced by Margaret Perry for the Nova Scotia Film Bureau.

Features visits to historic sites in Nova Scotia with filming of  elaborate celebrations of Order of Good Cheer at the Habitation and includes shots of Fort Anne, Old St Edwards Church at Clementsport. This footage apparently used again in 1965 production “Forts”.

(Available for viewing at NSARM - VC 37, Eastern Eye # 925)

“Scallop Fleet Hunts Delicacy of the Deep” – 1955

Documentary on scallop fishing

Apparently includes footage of prepare nets, shucking shells, etc.

(Available from Grinberg Archives, Eastern Eye # 941)

“CBC Newsmagazine” – 14th August 1955

B & W public affairs story on Annapolis Royal celebrating its 350th birthday. Includes views of Governor General Vincent Massey and Nova Scotia Premier inspecting the RCAF guard of honour, ceremonies at De Monts monument; and re-enactment of British capture of Port Royal.

(Held at LAC & 234783 & 13—0843)

350th Anniversary at Annapolis Royal – 1955

B & W actuality footage shot at Annapolis Royal during 350th anniversary celebrations

Actuality footage was shot by NFB  and CHSJ cameras.

(Available from NFB; Eastern Eye # 757, 946, 947 & 979)

“Sunset Ceremony: RCN” – 1955

B & W documentary shot by CBC Halifax

Sunset ceremony at HMCS Cornwallis in Deep Brook.

(Available at NSARM, Eastern Eye # 1132)

Bond Family Home Movies – 1955/56

Silent home movie footage taken by Nettie Bond

Footage includes natal day celebrations and parades in Annapolis Royal and historic re-enactments at Fort Anne of 1710 take over by the British (1955) and at the Habitation of 1605 performance of Neptune’s Theatre (1956). 

(DVD viewing copies made for Historical Association of Annapolis Royal, held by EJD,  to be deposited at AHS.)

Shepherd Family Home Movie - 1958

Silent, home movie footage of a trip to the Maritimes in summer of 1958 shot by Robert Ward Shepherd.

Includes brief scenes of Habitation at Port Royal, Fort Anne at Annapolis Royal, and Princess Helene at Digby Wharf. 

(Held at LAC # 302363 & V1 2003-05-0022)

1960’s

“Artists” -1960’s?

Documentary directed by Margaret Perry for Nova Scotia Travel Bureau.

It features 13  Nova Scotian artists working and talking about their work (but not identified except in end credits), including Kelsey Raymond.

(Available at NSARM # 18)

Digby – CBC News Coverage – 1960’s

B & W footage and news reports.

Stories include quality of water in municipal water supply, strawberry picking, Maude Lewis and municipal airport.

(Held at CBC Broadcast Library – Halifax.

Middleton – CBC News Coverage – 1960’s

B & W footage and reports.

Stories include plans for highway construction, Fundy Fertilizer plant, canoe builder, and pheasant reserve.

(Held at  CBC Broadcast Library - Halifax)

“Where History was Made: The Habitation at Port Royal” - 1960

B & W CBC Halifax television production narrated by Ken Homer and produced by Sandy Lumsden.

Dramatizations of life at the Habitation using local community actors, filmed without dialogu, but with voice-over narration.

(Held at CBC Halifax Broadcast library, Eastern Eye # 1401.  Stills from this production were on display for years on the walls of the Community Centre / Legion building and are now held at the AHS Archives.)

“The Navy Way” – 1962 / “Right Man Right Job” - 1964

Documentary produced by Department of National Defence

Both documentaries follow training of recruits at Cornwallis from their arrival to graduation.  Further research would be necessary to determine whether they contain similar footage or not.

(Available from LAC)

“Scallop Fishing” – 1964

Silent, documentary commissioned by National Sea Products and produced by NFB

Follows all stages of scallop fishing.

(Original footage available at NFB; Eastern Eye # 1572 & 1596. See also Eastern Eye # 956 re 1955 footage on scallop fishery)        

Bridgetown – CBC News Coverage – 1967

B & W news report.

News report on destruction of distillery in Bridgetown

(Held at CBC Broadcast Library – Halifax.)

“Gazette:- Return to Lequille”&Բ; - 1968

CBHT production for series “Gazette”, broadcast 5 December, 1968

Performance of the Annapolis District Drama Group pageant at Grist Mill depicting early contact between Mg’kmaq people and French explorers, in summer of 1967.

(Available at NSARM & EJD DVD copy; Eastern Eye # 1978)

“County Calendar: Strawberry Farming” – 1968

CBC production broadcast 21st June 1968

Documentary program on the growing, processing and marketing of strawberries in Nova Scotia, using a strawberry project in Digby County.

(Held at CBC Halifax Television Broadcast Library, Eastern Eye # 1931 & 1945, 2030)

1970’s

Annapolis Royal - CBC Television News Coverage – 1970’s

CBC news coverage of stories from Annapolis Royal included the story of the Croscup Painted Parlour in Karsdale, Peter Nicholson on tax increases, Granville Ferry painter Geoff Butler and the development of tidal power.

(Held at CBC Broadcast Library – Halifax)

Bear River – CBC Television News Coverage – 1970’s

CBC news coverage from Bear river included the story of building of bridge for highway # 101 crossing the Bear River.

(Held at CBC Broadcast Library – Halifax)

Digby – CBC Television News Coverage – 1970’s

Stories include launching of Princess of Acadia ferry, construction of bridge at Bear River, wood carver – Clement Belliveau, mayoralty politics, fishing, champion rower – George Brown, Ground-Hot Day storm, airport, agriculture, police ticketing tourists, discrimination and racism in schools, black runner, scallop fleet shellfish poisoning, fishing, ferry Princess of Acadia,  bus drivers, lobster fishing, and fox fur farming.

(Held at CBC Broadcast Library – Halifax)

Middleton – CBC Television News Coverage – 1970’s

Stories include local hospital, highway 101, MacDonald School/Museum, local police, local band,

(Held at CBC Halifax Broadcast Library)

Paradise – CBC Television News Coverage – 1970’s

Stories include snowshoe-maker – Jesse Saunders, tray collection – Roy Whitman, and Paradise School.

(Held at CBC Halifax Broadcast Library)

Croscup Painted Parlour – 1976

Video  (B & W) documentation of Croscup Painted Parlour from Karsdale.

Includes documentation of all phases of stabilization, deconstruction, crating, removal, and restoration by National Gallery of Canada.  Also presentations on the restoration of the Croscup Painted Parlour

(6-8 VHS tapes held at AHS Archives with originals at National Gallery of Canada)

“Land and Sea:  Life Styles – Simple Gifts” – 1976

Documentary visit to Bear River by CBC Halifax production, produced by John Hicks, broadcast 9th November 1976

Includes visits to home of Gene Sampson and Mike and Donna Susnick.

(Held at NSARM)

“Maud Lewis:  A World Without Shadows” -  1976

Documentary by National Film Board Film, directed by Diane Beaudry.

Documentary shows Maud and Everett Lewis, their home outside of Digby, a selection of Maud Lewis paintings together with scenes in the area reflecting the same subjects as in the paintings.

(Available from WCRL, NFB, Halifax Regional Lib Video # 113C 0176 004 & EJD VHS copy)

“Heritage:  Early Film-Making in Nova Scotia” -  1977

Television series, narrated and produced by Bill Harper for CBHT.

Documentary episode includes interview with Alexander Leighton, and footage from his 1929 “Life of the Beaver” and 1936 “Porpoise Oil`.      

(Available for viewing at NSARM – VC 65)

“Canada Vignettes:  Port Royal” - 1978

1 mn animated  short by Robert Doucet of Meteghan, for National Film Board  Illustrates French settlement attempts at St. Croix and then at Port Royal in 1604 & 1605

 (Shown at Annapolis West Educational Centre, August 1978 and available as special order from National Film Board)

“Discover Nova Scotia” – 1979         

Promotional video produced for the Nova Scotia Department of Tourism.

Includes views of Habitation at Port Royal and grounds at Fort Anne.

(Availability at NSARM)

1980’s

Fred Barrett Videotaping – 1980’s / 1990’s

Videotaping by Fred Barrett of visits, interviews and activities..

Includes visits with seniors; documentation of photographs, school registers, etc; and activities such as boat building at “Gems” shed on Annapolis/Granville causeway on 16 VHS tapes           

(Held at AHS 99-1053 together with notes on contents.  These may, or may not, be duplicates of the Valley Senior Sight and Sound collection at the MacDonald Museum in Middleton and should be a high priority for systematic viewing and cataloguing while people and locations might still be identified .  See recommendations)

Annapolis Royal – CBC News Coverage – 1980’s

Stores include coverage of the Tidal Power development, performances at King’s Theatre,  a fire at Hillsburne, the archaeological dig at Belle Isle, mayoralty election of Daurene Lewis, visit of Prince Andrew, provincial election, Upper Clements Theme Park, abandonment of rail line, and Bainton’s being charged for remaining open on Sundays.

(Held at CBC Broadcast Library – Halifax)

Bear River – CBC News Coverage – 1980’s

Stories include coverage of a cotton paper manufacturing company, a historic painted room, costume museum, and local economic development sewage treatment.

(Held at CBC Broadcast Library – Halifax)

Bridgetown – CBC News Coverage – 1980’s

Stories include coverage of Elastics Plant, Britex, artist Ken Tolmie’s Bridgetown series, threatened closure of schools, closure of Acadian Distillery, Bridgetown’s 90th birthday, defence contract for local company, highway tragedy, Hill Family, abandonment of rail line and criminal cases.

(Held at CBC Broadcast Library – Halifax)

Digby – CBC News Coverage – 1980’s

Stories include Point Prim, bus drivers’ strike, quality of municipal water supply, Maude Lewis house, fish processing, mud wrestling, sardine fishery, tunnel/pipeline under Bay of Fundy, sea cadets, lobster fishery, strike at Keddy’s Nursing Home, digging of clams, drug bust, drugstores not selling cigarettes, provincial election, navy sinking fishing boat, fire truck, highschool course on seamanship, visit of Prince Andrew, blockade of Saint John Ferry, charges of racism against Judge, fish quotas, scallop dragging, poisoning by wintergreen, mink farming, fishing boat fire and local criminal cases

(Held at CBC Broadcast Library – Halifax)

Granville Ferry – CBC News Coverage – 1980’s

Stories include visit with Geoff Butler – artist, and report on local welfare mother.

(Held at CBC Halifax Broadcast Library)

Middleton – CBC News Coverage – 1980’s

Stories include potential rent controls, main street, highschool, MacDonald School Museum, farm bankruptcy, case of Bruce Curtis, municipal insurance, Atlantic Playground Amusement Park, building by-law, pharmacy dropping cigarette sales, supplying police cars, house fire killing 2, and water quality.

(Held at CBC Halifax Broadcast Library)

“Annapolis Tidal Power” – 1980’s

Produced by Nova Scotia Information Service for Nova Scotia Department of Tourism

Includes footage of Port Royal, a re-enactment of Order of Good Cheer, views of Fort Anne; aerial views of Cause-Way before construction of tidal power, beginning of the construction of the tidal power station; movement of turbine and generator across Canada and arrival by barge; interior views of tidal power station, views of rise and fall of tide at Hal’s Harbour; aerial views of Cape Split. 

(VHS copy included with Town of Annapolis Royal Records – 2007-1279)

Heritage High Tea – 1980’s

Videotaping at Kerr House, Historic Gardens, Annapolis Royal.

Recording of rooms with tables set, food being served, and visitors enjoying their meal, including views of Jim and Pauline How, Shirley Kerr, Karen Tumilty, Joan Harrison and many others.

(VHS tape held by Parks Canada – Fort Anne)

Valley Seniors in Sight and Sound – 1981- 1995

Interviews, performances, events, meetings, openings, etc, recorded on @ 100 videotapes by Ralph Wagner, Fred Barrett, Ross Burgess and others.

This documentation includes the launching of ships; the re-enactment of the Scottish landing at Fort Anne; visits to rural schools from Torbrook to Bear River; municipal council meetings and much more.  Some obvious highlights have been described separately in this inventory.

(VHS tape copies are available for viewing at the MacDonald Museum together with a cursory listing of topics on the videos.  This footage should be systematically viewed and catalogued while personalities and locations might still be identified – see recommendations.  Also see Fred Barrett’s videotapes deposited directly at AHS - # 99.1053)

“Heritage:  Annapolis Royal”: – 1981

2 Episodes of CBC Halifax television series, hosted by Neil Copeland, produced by Bill Harper, broadcast 27th January  and 3rd of February 1981 

Visit to Annapolis Royal includes interviews with Barry Moody, Ruth Eisenhauer (in her home), exterior views of Sinclair Inn in 1980’s before facade restoration,  Marguerite Wagner (at the O’Dell House Museum), visit to Parker House in Bellisle with Evan Petley-Jones (in the Parker House), discussion of the beginning and evolution of the Historic Restoration Society, and visit to North Hills Museum

(Held at CBC Broadcast Library - Halifax & EJD reference cassette)

“Portraits of the Maritimes: Seeing it Our way” – 1982

CBC television production by CBHT, produced by Janet P. Smith, broadcast 1st January, 1982

Profile of artist Ken Tomie and his Bridgetown series of paintings, with visits to the people and locations seen in his paintings.

(Available from WCRL  & Held by CBC Television Halifax Broadcast Library)

“Heritage:  Macdonald School Museum”: - 1983

4 episodes of CBC Halifax television series, hosted by Neil Copeland, produced by Bill Harper, broadcast 10th & 24th October,  7th & 14th November, 1983

Visit to Macdonald School Museum including discussion of Sir William Macdonald, PEI tobacco magnate and school consolidation, Acadian artifacts, museum’s antique clock collection, and interview with Furber Marshall about the history of the Maritime Telegraph and Telephone Company.

(Held at NSARM and available for viewing on VC 140 & 169)

“Land and Sea: What Price for Power?” – 1986

Documentary report on environmental damage of tidal power plant at Annapolis Royal, written and narrated by Gerry Whalen, broadcast 17th November, 1986.

Documentary includes comments by Dave Webber - businessman, George Baker - Vice-President – Nova Scotia Tidal Power, Rob Warren - farmer, Louis Comeau- Presiden, Nova Scotia Power, Sharon Cranton-  farmer,  David Patriquin -   biologist, Mike Rock –owner of Riverboat, Joe Milner –Clam Association, Greg Kerr – Minister of Finance for Nova Scotia, Gerry Lethbridge – Vice-President, Nova Scotia Power, and footage from construction and opening of Tidal Power.

(Held by CBC Television Halifax Broadcast Library)

“The Dream and the Triumph” – 1986

Drama based on a short story by Ernest Buckler, directed by Bruce Pittman, co-produced by NFB and Atlantis Film for broadcast on Global Television.

Story about a young man moving in with his grandmother to help take care of her farm after her husband’s death, and needing an expensive eye operation.  Cast included Helen Carscallen, Milan Cheylov, Len Watt, Griffith Beaver.

(Available from NFB)

“The Rebellion of Young David” – 1986

Drama based on a short story by Ernest Buckler, directed by John N. Smith, coproduced by Atlantis Films and NFB for broadcast by Global Television

Story about a young farmer, his seven-year old son, and the death of the farmer’s wife.   Cast included Neil Munro and Rene Carlisle.

(Available from NFB)

“Madame Latour” - 1988

Dramatized historical production , directed by Herménégilde Chiasson, produced by  K. Carota &  L. Carota for  Ciné-Est en Action
Drama tells story (in French) of  Charles de Saint-Étienne de la Tour and Madame Latour during period 1690’s to 1710 at Port Royal (currently Annapolis Royal).  Filmed in part at the Habitation at Port Royal.  Winner of  Best Canadian Short Feature: Yorkton Film Festival, 1989.

(Availability unconfirmed)

“Rendezvous Canada: 1606” – 1988

Dramatization directed by Joan Henson, produced by National Film Board for Parks Canada

Re-creation of lives of Charles de Biencourt, a French teen-ager at Port Royal, and Andashee, a Huron boy, who never met, but heard about each other.  Filmed in part at the Habitation in Port Royal.  Performers include interpretative staff at the Habitation as well as some locals.

(Available for lending from WCRL; Available from NFB, Halifax Regional Library, & EJD VHS copy)

“Black Mother/Black Daughter” –  1989

Documentary for NFB, directed by Sylvia Hamilton and produced by Sheilagh Mackenzie.

Documentary explores the lives and experiences of black women, their mothers and their contributions to Nova Scotia.  Includes Daurene Lewis, weaver and mayor of Annapolis Royal

(Available for lending from AVRL & WCRL; Available from NFB & EJD – reference cassette)

Harriet Taber Richardson – 1989

Videotaping of performance of play at King’s Theatre

Play written by Andrew Merkel, directed by Jim How, with Pauline How, and other local community actors performing.  This performance was introduced and concluded by Dorothy Thorne  explaining the contributions of Andrew Merkel and Harriet Taber Richardson.

(VHS tape held by Parks Canada – Fort Anne)

“Nicholas” – 1989

Documentary directed by Herbert Shuurman, produced by Shelagh Mackenzie for NFB.

Story of the family of Rhonda and Emerson McCullough of Deck, and their disabled son, Nicholas, winning a normal life for their child.

(Available from NFB and via AVRL)

Scottish Landing Re-Enactment – 1989?

 Video documentation of re-enactment at Port Royal/Annapolis Royal?

This footage shows long-boats coming through the fog, greetings by the French, speeches by the Scots; settlers bringing their goods ashore, M’kaq people bringing gifts; concluding with prayers.

(VHS tape # 184 in Valley Seniors in Sight and Sound Collection at MacDonald Museum)

1990’s

Annapolis Royal – CBC Television News Coverage – 1990’s

Stories include coverage of Upper Clements Theme Park, performances at King’s Theatre, Closing of Navy training base at Cornwallis, development of a wetland at Belle Isle, Randy Glynn Dance Project, Heritage tapestry at Fort Anne, fishing farming in the Annapolis Basin, Fort Anne eroding, status and future of abandoned rail beds, historic house tours, federal election, quality of water supply, future of hospital, oil spill at Parker’s Cove, reduction of bus service, school board election, launch of book by Joe Casey,  museum at Cornwallis, discovery of Acadian sluices, 150th anniversary of Evangeline, cow pattie bingo Roger Strawbridge home, historic encampment and re-enactment at Fort Anne, the upcoming 400th anniversary celebrations, Hillsburne fish plant fire, Pearson Peacekeeping Centre  and local criminal cases       

(Held at CBC Broadcast Library - Halifax)

Bear River – CBC Television News Coverage – 1990’s

Stories include closing of Royal Bank branch, return of bones and artifacts, hot dog vendor, sewage treatment, annual cherry carnival, local toymaker, emergency landing at Upper Clements, Jeff Boudreau’s many convictions and fire at Cornwallis Navy training base.

(Held at CBC Broadcast Library - Halifax)

Bridgetown – CBC Television News Coverage – 1990’s

Stories include closing of Britex Textiles plant, closure of Atlantic Defence Industries plant, threatened closure of school, Black Powder Shoot-out, highschool project revisiting D-Day, mayoralty election, Magwood House, Bridgetown dummies, and local crime cases.  

(Held at CBC Broadcast Library - Halifax)

Clementsport – CBC Television News Coverage – 1990’s

Stories include closure of railway bridge, closure of Cornwallis Training Base, local helicopter being built, and local crime cases.

(Held at CBC Broadcast Library - Halifax)    

Digby – CBC Television News Coverage – 1990’s

Stories include local police service, scallop fishing, fish quotas, loss of fish plants, Joe Casey, working for welfare, monitoring foreign fishing, tragedy of house fire killing 3,Digby Courier controversy, hospital, closing of Cornwallis Training Base, unemployment, closing of training centres for handicapped, lobster fishermen strike, provincial election, lobster fishery, fish farming, house explosion killing 2, pig barn fire, town of Digby left off provincial tourism map, spousal abuse group, Peacekeeping Training Centre at Cornwallis, animal shelter, foodbank, Digby Pines Hotel, rescue from fishing boat, erosion along Digby shoreline, ferry service to Saint John, dead whale, DFO protests, garbage disposal, celebrity golf at Digby Pines, scallop protests, Maude Lewis House, whale watching, Shaw Plant at Cornwallis, boardwalk, tire fire at Cornwallis, native fishing,  and local crime cases

(Held at CBC Broadcast Library - Halifax)

Granville Ferry – CBC Television News Coverage – 1990’s

Stories include shoemaker – Fred Longtin, boil water warning, house tour, banning of peanut butter at school, and North Hills Museum.

(Held at CBC Broadcast Library - Halifax)

Parker’s Cove – CBC Television News Coverage -1990’s

Stories include renegade fishermen at Hillsburne,

(Held at CBC Broadcast Library - Halifax)

Middleton – CBC Television News Coverage – 1990’s

Stories include Clean Annapolis River project, Forrestall family home, Middleton Mirror ad re Gulf Death Squads, MidValley Motel, water quality, Mount Hanley druid stone, county position re video lottery terminals, Irvine and Emma Tufts Garden, tractor-trailor accident, bus service, armed stand-off re water, funeral service for Earle Rayfuse, grain handling centre, tractor protest, Kosova refugees at Middleton Soldiers Memorial Hospital, and Christmas concert controversy.

(Held at CBC Broadcast Library - Halifax)

Paradise – CBC Television News Coverage – 1990’s -

Stories include quality of water, Pearle’s take-out, and farming.

(Held at CBC Broadcast Library - Halifax)

Parker’s Cove – CBC Television News Coverage - 1990’s

Coverage of oil spill discovered at Parker’s Cove.

(Held at CBC Broadcast Library - Halifax)

Victoria Beach – CBC Television News Coverage – 1990’s

Coverage of murder trial of Eric Bain.

(Held at CBC Broadcast Library - Halifax)

Garrison Cemetery Gravestone Cleaning – 9th June, 1990

Videotaping by Paul Thibodeau of Parks Day Activity in Annapolis Royal.

Footage includes orientation of volunteers at St. Luke’s Church Hall and their work cleaning stones at the Garrison Cemetery.

(VHS tape held by Parks Canada – Fort Anne)

Fort Anne Heritage Tapestry Evolution – 1991

Videotaping by Paul Thibodeau of the evolution of the Fort Anne Heritage Tapesty

Includes introduction of heritage tapestry project at King’s Theatre by Jim How, including Dorothy Thorne, explaining the symbols being used;  Barry Moody and Brenda Dunn explaining the stories of the panels.  A second tape shows stitching at Bear River.

(2 VHS tapes held by Parks Canada – Fort Anne)

Opening Ceremonies: Natal Days – 1992

Home video footage of ceremonies at King’s Theatre, July 31st, 1992

Includes Doctor MacLaughlin as Master of Ceremonies, Town Crier - Peter Wyman, introduction of Princesses by Nadine Campbel - Queen of 1991, performances by Noel Lucas, Focus, Bob Watson and the Blue Grass Mountaineers.

(VHS tape in Town of Annapolis Royal collection – Acc 2007 -1279 at AHS)

“Port Royal Habitation / Doorway to the Past” – 1992

Docu-drama by Creative Atlantic, for Parks Canada for use in schools

Dramatization of a visit to the Habitation at Port Royal with visitors travelling back in time.  Much of the footage representing life and activities at the Habitation were re-used from “Rendezvous Canada: 1606”.  Written by Janice Evans, directed by Greg Jones and John Dunsworth.  Also produced in French as “Le Portrail Magique”’       .

(VHS tape held by Parks Canada – Fort Anne)

“Inner Mountains, Inner Valleys: The Life and Writing of Ernest Buckler” - 1993

Docu-drama by Envison Productions

Featuring R. H. Thompson, written and directed by Chuck Lapp, and including archival actuality of Ernest Buckler, this production recreates the life and writing of Buckler.

(Availability – Friends of Ernest Buckler Society)

“The Illuminated Life of Maud Lewis” - 1998

Docu-drama by Triad Films,  directed by Peter d’Entremont, for the National Film Board

Includes dramatizations of Maud and Everett (Ken Mahar) Lewis shot at Bear River, the opening of Maud Lewis exhibit at Canadian Museum of Civilization, Cora Greenaway, selected paintings, Philip Woolover ,and others who knew her.

(Available for lending from WCRL; Available from NFB, Halifax Regional Library & EJD copy)

“Lady Vanessa Fisheries Exhibit – The Inshore Fishery of Digby” – 1994

Documentary by Kenley Enterprises and Basin Productions made for Lady Vanessa Fisheries Theatre.

Footage shot on board, on shore, and under-water of all stages of lobster and scallop fishing.

(Available for viewing at Lady Vanessa Fisheries Theatre and Admiral Digby Museum)

“Sketches of Our Town: Digby” – 1994

Documentary visit to Digby, produced by Beaver Creek Productions, narrated by Harvey Kirck

(Available for lending from WCRL; Available for viewing at Admiral Digby Museum)

“Sketches of Our Town:  Annapolis Royal” – 1996

Documentary visit to Annapolis Royal, produced by Beaver Creek Pictures, narrated by Harvey Kirck

Includes a great variety of perspectives of Annapolis Roya, including commentaries by Jim How (in his home and walking about town), Barry Moody (in his home at Port Royal), Alan Melanson (in graveyard and in Fort Anne explaining the tapestry), Natasha Silver (giving tours and acting on stage at King’s Theatre), and Pat Pelham (at Historic Gardens).

(Available for lending from AVRL, for sale from Beaver Creek productions & EJD copy)

“Rhythm Stick To Freedom:  The Rose Fortune Story” - 1998

Docudrama by Great North Atlantic Media Inc. broadcast on History Television, March/April, 1998;

Docudrama tells the story of Rose Fortune in Annapolis Royal in the 18th and 19th centuries, suggesting that she played a role in the ‘underground railway” helping slaves escape to Canada.  It includes footage of contemporary Annapolis Royal, as well as Daurene Lewis, her direct descendant,  historians Barry Moody, Jim How,  and Alan Melansen, a historian of the underground railway, a black ATV reporter; and white female preacher to tell the story.

(Available for lending from AVRL)

“The Noggin’s”&Բ; - 1998

Pilot for television series produced, written and directed by Lance Woolaver and Ron Foley MacDonald

The pilot for this series about 3 brothers who produce folk art that is being discovered and stolen by a nasty Art Gallery director, featured Walter Borden, Josh MacDonald and Gordon Gammie and Ken Mahar was shot in Bear River, using local cast and crew.
(Pilot was completed but never broadcast)

Strolling Through the Centuries in Annapolis Royal with Jim How and Charlotte Perkins – 1998/1999

Videotaping of slide and sound presentations at St. Lukes Church Hall and King’s Theatre

Joint presentation of Historic Restoration Society of Annapolis and Historical Association of Annapolis Royal of Charlotte Perkins slide show of 1950’s combined with contemporary slides of same views, including audio commentary by Charlotte Perkins and commentary by Jim How.

(Held at AHS archives # 99.1052)

2000

Annapolis Royal – CBC Television News Coverage – 2000

Stories include dispute between town and town crier, Shell Oil grant controversy, future of health centre, Olympic swimming hopeful – Brooke Buckland, Order of Canada – Daurene Lewis, arrival of tall ship – Europa, computer museum, Thibodeau reunion, sighting of whale above cause-way, world’s most livable small town, Rebecca Clark memorial, banishing of ATV’s, merger of local papers, future of tidal power, and local criminal cases.

(Held at CBC Broadcast Library - Halifax)

Bear River  – CBC Television News Coverage – 2000

Stories include local criminal cases, RCMP battle against marijuana growing, Bear River First Nations Cultural Centre, saving the Smith’s Cove Lighthouse, attracting doctors, fire at health clinic,  and local crime cases.

(Held at CBC Broadcast Library - Halifax)

Bridgetown – CBC Television News Coverage -  2000

Stories include boil water order, seniors’ safety, insurance and repair for the local rink, Britex plant, sightings of whale in Annapolis River and local criminal cases.

(Held at CBC Broadcast Library - Halifax)

Digby  – CBC News Television News Coverage – 2000

Stories include the lobster fishery, poisoned dogs, Peacekeeping Centre, future of local hospital, native fishery, Digby Wharf, endangered whales, scallop fishery, dog by-law, seniors’ safety, recovery of bodies of lobster fishermen, call centre at Cornwallis, amputee hockey player -  Justin Gauthier, camera surveillance on streets, minor hockey, school principal deserted cats, missing puppies, tasar death, racial discrimination charges regarding RCMP, future of ferry to Saint John, golf tournament at Digby Pines and local crime cases.

(Held at CBC  Broadcast Library - Halifax)

Granville Ferry – CBC Television News Coverage – 2000

Stories include North Hills Museum and protests against spraying of herbicide.

(Held at CBC Broadcast Library - Halifax)

Middleton – CBC Television News Coverage – 2000

Stories include future of valley health care, future of nursing homes, Brickton highway accident, flooding, Bill Sampson backyard rink, municipal boundary dispute, missing highway signs, Spa Springs cattle raid, Highschool expansion and local crime cases.

(Held at CBC Broadcast Library - Halifax)

Paradise – CBC Television News Coverage – 2000

Stories include living in Paradise, and Hankinson’s train.

(Held at CBC Broadcast Library - Halifax)

Victoria Beach – CBC Television News Coverage – 2000

Coverage of prospective quarry at Victoria Beach.

(Held at CBC Broadcast Library - Halifax)

Crossroads Community Play - 2000

Video documentation of community play performed at various outdoor locations throughout Annapolis Royal, 28th, 29th & 30th July, 2000

A project of the Annapolis Regional Arts Council, developed and directed by J. Frederick Brown.  Locations included Farmers’ Market, St. George Street, Boardwalk, Petit Parc, Fort Anne ,Court House, and Train Station.

(2 part VHS tapes & booklet with description and all cast and crew available from ARCAC & EJD VHS reference copy)

“One Night in Acadie” - 2000

 CBC/SRC co-production in two parts, broadcast, 9th September, 2000

Part one filmed at Port Royal Habitation with group of 8 Acadians having a grand meal and discussing what it means to be Acadian.  Part two was filming of the concert on Citadel Hill at the close of the Congress Mondial Acadian.  Hosted by Brent Bambury.

(Held at CBC Broadcast Library  - Halifax; VHS reference copy held by EJD.

“Canada: A Peoples’ History” – 2000

CBC/SRC co-production with episode “The Lost Colony”, filmed at Port Royal

The Habitation at Port Royal here was used to represent the colony of Sir Guy Carleton established in Newfoundland in 1610.

(Available from CBC Boutique; VHS reference copy held by EJD)

“Satan’s Pinocchio” – 2001

Dramatic film by Daniel Matmor.

A low-budget dramatic film shot at  Bear River, Clementsport, Round Hill and Historic Gardens, with cast and crew including local people from the area. @ 50 hours of footage was shot and editing begun, but the final version may never have been completed.            

Oren Foster – 2001

Interview of Oren Foster by Sean Paul Grieve

Interview of Oren Foster about his wartime experiences, for a potential feature film or documentary treatment on WW II snipers.  This potential project entitled “Semper Fidelis” by Predator Entertainment was scheduled for shooting in the summer of 2002, but was dropped for lack of funding. 

“Sieur DeMons”- 2002

Documentary shot for broadcast on French television

Shot by a television crew from Royan, France, at the Habitation and Fort Anne, with involvement of the Port Royal 400th Anniversary Society costumed locals.

(Unknown if a copy of the final documentary was made available locally)

“My Little Eye” - 2002

 British horror feature film, shot in Nova Scotia by imX Communications

Exteriors for this film were shot at the House of Roth in Clementsport in the spring of 2001 with interiors recreated on sound stage in Burnside.

(Available for purchase as commercial DVD)

“Land and Sea:  Old Tractors” – 2004

Documentary visit to farm of Donnie Milne in Granville Ferry, by CBC Halifax.

Includes visit to the Milne farm with interviews of Donnie and Jean Milne, including visuals of antique tractor shows in New Brunswick.

(Held by CBC Television Broadcast Library  - Halifax)

“Bear River Blessing” – 2004

Documentary produced by Tim Wilson, Personmedia, for Bear River River Heritage and Cultural Centre

This documentary combines contemporary and historical stills and moving image footage to introduce the heritage and culture of the Mi’kmaq people Bear River.

(Available for viewing at Bear River Heritage and Cultural Centre)

“The Last Weir” – 2004

Documentary produced by Tim Wilson, Personmedia, for broadcast by CBC television.

Documentary about weir fishing on Digby Neck, winning awards and critical attention for its treatment of industrialism and overfishing.

(Available for lending at WCRL;  from Tom Wilson at Personamedia.com)

“Stanley’s Weir” – 2004

Documentary produced by Tim Wilson, Personmedia

Documentary about all stages of weir fishing at Sandy Cove, using footage shot        for “the Last Weir” but not used here.

(Available for viewing at Admiral Digby Museum; from Ton Wilson at Personmedia.com)

“A Wedding in Bear River”&Բ;– 2005

Documentary produced by Tim Wilson, Personmedia

Documentary of the marriage of Masashi Kimura and Yusoka Okamoto.

(Available from Tom Wilson at Personamedia.com)

Ghosts of the Sinclair Inn - 2005

Installation at Sinclair Inn Museum, produced by Ernest J. Dick for Annapolis Heritage Society

Monologues by 10 historic personalities associated with the Sinclair Inn from 1710 to the 1940’s, written by John Kirby, with local community actors.

(Available only at Sinclair Inn Museum, seasonally, when Museum is open)

“On the Road Again: Middleton Railway Museum” - 2006

CBC Television series with Wayne Ronstead, broadcast 7th December, 2006

(Available for sale from Middleton Railway Museum)        

“Port Royal 1605 – 2005” – 2006

Documentary  by Tim Wilson commissioned by the Town of Annapolis Royal

Documents  the celebrations at Annapolis Royal and Port Royal for the 400th anniversary in 2004 & 2005.

(Available from Town Hall, Annapolis Royal)

“Zoe’s Dylan” – 2006

Documentary produced by Tim Wilson, Personmedia

Documentary about Zoe Knorek-Onysko, eccentric owner of Oddacity Designs in Bear River and her affection for Bob Dylan

(Available from Tom Wilson at Personamedia.com)

“Bear River Garbage Man” – 2006

Documentary produced by Tim Wilson, Personmedia

Documentary about Paul Smith and his collecting the garbage of Bear River

(Available from Tom Wilson at Personamedia.com)

“The Clam Diggers” – 2006

Documentary produced by Tim Wilson, Personmedia            

Documentary about a mother and her daughter digging clams in the Annapolis Basin.

(Available from Tom Wilson at Personamedia.com)

“Digby Fair” – 2006   

Documentary produced by Tim Wilson, Personmedia

Documentary about the Digby County Exhibition in Bear River.

(Available from Tom Wilson at Personamedia.com)

“The Prophet of Whale Cove” – 2007

Documentary produced by Tim Wilson, Personmedia

Documentary about Kemp Stanton, fisherman from Whale Cove and his campaign against the quarry on Digby Neck.

(Available from Tom Wilson at Personamedia.com)

“Annapolis Spirit” – 2007

Documentary produced by Tim Wilson, Personmedia

Promo for community volunteerism and commitment.

(Available from Tom Wilson at Personamedia.com)

“In the Same Boat” – 2007

Documentary by Martha Stiegman

The two-part documentary tells the story of the Bear River First Nations fishery working with the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (“In Defense of Our Treaties”) and the story of Terry Fansworth, one of the last ‘handliners” working out of Digby (“The End of the Line”). 

(Available from Ecology Action Centre – Halifax)

“Living East” – 2007

Documentary series arts and culture and entertainment broadcast on CBC Maritimes network

Episode # 28, broadcast 30th Aprio, 2007 featured Digby fire-fighters getting fit &  # 29 broadcast 7 May, 2007 featured the Ladies Auxiliary of the Bear River Legion, and a woodworker, silk artist, potter, and used clothing outlet in

Bear River

(Held at CBC  Broadcast Library - Halifax)

“Land and Sea: Mink Farming” – 2007

CBC television series produced by CBHT, broadcast 3rd June, 2007

Episode consists of a visit to a mink ranch in Digby County with Hazen Prime, Bruce Roberts, Ron Crowell, Mary Ann Patton, Tina Jagros, Barry Jordan, Jean Melanson, Simon and Donna Leblanc, and Gail Morris on viability of mink ranching.

(Held at  CBC Broadcast Library - Halifax)

Five Stab Wounds – 2007      

Videotaping by Keith Chrysler of rehearsal highlights of performance

This original play, written by Kent Thompson, directed by Sherry Caldwell, and performed by Madeleine Aitken-Carhart, Brenda Thompson, and Brenda Keen was presented in 5 acts over the weekend of October 12 – 14 in 5 locations (Newman’s Restaurant, Hillsdale House Inn, Historic Gardens, Queen Anne Inn, and Courthouse).  It probed  the suspicious death of Governor Lawrence in Annapolis Royal in 1739 as if it were a contemporary murder mystery.

(Available from Keith Chrylser and from AHS)

“Rhythms and Blooms” -2007

Documentary by Spin Media for broadcast in High Definition format on US speciality channels, shot at Historic Gardens of Annapolis Royal, summer 2007

This impressionistic and lyrical documentary includes dozens of perspectives at the Historic Gardens and on camera- comments by Keith Chrysler  - Board Member, Carol McMurray – volunteer and family member donating land for Gardens, Trish Fry – General Manager, Karen Achenbach – Horticulturalist.

(Available for viewing at Historic Gardens)

Recommendations:

  • Fred Barrett videotapes at AHS and Valley Seniors in Sight and Sound collection of VHS tapes at MacDonald Museum needs to be catalogued with follow-up archival preservation and access for those items that are unique and of exceptional historical significance.
  • Betty Lewis footage of Bridgetown now in private hands should be acquired for permanent archival preservation at the NSARM cold vault, with new DVD public access copies generated.
  • Alexander Leighton footage at NSARM needs to be catalogued while personalities and locations might still be identified.
  • Shared cost project for transfer of original moving image materials to digital formats, depositing originals with local museums and archives, would ensure the survival of unique moving image documentation for the future.