Founded in 1919 as an association of the Royal Nova Scotia Historical Society, the Historical Association of Annapolis Royal is a recognized leader in Canada in the preservation and presentation of heritage. Operated by a volunteer Board of Directors, the organization was presented the prestigious Parks Canada Heritage Award in 1996 by Prime Minister Jean Chrétien as one of the Top Ten Organizations in Canada for the Preservation and Presentation of History.

AWARD-WINNING TOURS & PROGRAMS
The area's rich cultural mosaic is brought to life through the Historical Association's award-winning guided tour program. The Candlelight Graveyard Tours, National Historic District Tours and Acadian Heritage Tours won the first place "Hometown Pride Event of the Year" title from Nova Scotia Tourism's Festivals and Events Council in 2005. The Association also publishes the "Stroll Through the Centuries" Walking Tour Brochure for visitors who prefer to explore at their own pace. Visitors can also walk along the streets of Annapolis Royal in the "Strolling Through the Centuries in Annapolis Royal" Community Memories Virtual Exhibit.

PUBLICATIONS
Through the years the Historical Association has published numerous books. As its contribution to the region's 400th anniversary in 2005, the Historical Association commissioned renowned historian, Brenda Dunn, to write A History of Port-Royal/Annapolis Royal 1605-1800, a comprehensive history book covering the Area's period of national significance.

PRESERVATION & HERITAGE PLAQUING
Heritage buildings are appropriately recognized and preserved for future generations through The Historical Association's ongoing plaquing program. With over 135 registered heritage properties, Annapolis Royal is one of the largest National Historic Districts in Canada. The Historical Association also owns and maintains the Town's historic lighthouse. The Historical Association is proud to share Sketches by Ross MacIntosh of some of these magnificent Heritage Properties.

YOUTH PROGRAMS
We realize today's youth hold the key to success of tomorrow's world heritage preservation movement. Private tours for school groups are offered and encouraged. The Historical Association is also proud to present an annual college scholarship to a deserving high school graduate. Other fun-filled learning activities for children with international recognition are provided through the Historical Association's A Colourful History of Annapolis Royal colouring book program.

CULTURAL SPONSORSHIPS
Other heritage projects include occasional sponsorship of historical productions at Kings Theatre and contributions to various worthy heritage causes such as the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia's recent purchase of the magnificent watercolours of Annapolis Royal painted in 1775 by Lt. Richard Williams.

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