News Release

REXTON (CNB) – The Bonar Law Common, formerly known as the Bonar Law Historic Site, officially opened in Rexton today. The ceremony was attended by Premier Shawn Graham and Rexton Mayor David Hanson.

“The additions of the new tourism components to the historic site will encourage tourists to visit and to stay in our area longer,” said Graham. “Cultural tourism is a growing sector of the economy and is another way of celebrating our history and culture, which will benefit our drive toward self-sufficiency.”

The Regional Development Corporation is investing $500,000 in infrastructure improvements at the designated provincial historic site. The Village of Rexton operates it under a lease with the provincial government.

The village developed the site surrounding the historic buildings and museum into three thematic areas – a festival area, a heritage sector and a games area – while respecting the authenticity of the site.
 
“With the recent lease and operating partnership with the province, along with the new heritage trail and other development, we are offering more than you can imagine,” said Hanson.

The project has consisted of the addition of a bandstand, open market area and public washrooms in the festival area; Heritage Walk, a new cultural trail highlighting the history of the region, was developed in the heritage sector of the site; and extreme croquet and famer's golf were created in the games area.

The Bonar Law Common recognizes the birthplace of Andrew Bonar Law, the only person born outside the United Kingdom to become prime minister of Great Britain.

The nine-hectare (3.6-acre) property includes a complex of historic buildings consisting of a simple 19th-century wood farmhouse facing the Richibucto River, a barn, and a wagon shed connected with board fencing to form a unique enclosed courtyard. The Richibucto River Museum is also located on the property.