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What is the Heritage Property Program?
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The objective of the Municipal Heritage Property Program is to:
Protect and preserve our registered built heritage and prevent unnecessary demolition and substantial alteration
to the exterior of designated properties. The program includes the inventory of many potential heritage properties,
registration and plaque unveiling ceremonies of those properties approved for official designation by the Municipal
Heritage Advisory Committee.
The program provides incentives in the form of conservation grants to not for profit organizations and church
groups, and a tax rebate on exterior conservation is also available to private home owners. However, it is the pleasure of
owning a designated community landmark that people find most appealing.
"Our built heritage is one of our most tangible reminders of our past. It is in our villages, it is on our
streets, it is our neighbor. To respect our built heritage is a direct reflection upon the integrity of a community".
(David Irvine, Warden, Municipality of the District of Digby 1999)
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Why have a Heritage Property Program?
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One of the most tangible reflections of the past is our built heritage. The architectural face of our historic properties
tells the story of the evolution of our communities from simple beginnings to industrial prosperity. Built heritage is
unique in that it speaks to us everyday telling us where we have been.
The Municipal Council realizes the importance these properties are to the communities in our district and
are dedicated to bringing the history of our historic buildings to the public and reveal the rich heritage that is uniquely ours.
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Architectural Style of the Area
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The United Empire Loyalists had a profound influence on the architecture style found in this area. Although they
brought with them many of the architectural features used in New England, these features appear somewhat minimized and
subdued in Digby County, and throughout the Maritimes. There are many reasons for this, not least of which is that they
possibly thought they might return to their New England homes after the new American government failed. Another reason
was that the technology to produce fine architectural features was not readily available locally, and was not a priority
for a pioneering settler.
One characteristic of many heritage properties in the area is that the overall design of a building was derived
from several recognizable architectural styles. This blending of styles produced a unique look, different from that
commonly found in the New England States.
Today the District of Digby boasts some of the finest examples of this blend in the Province. The influence of the
sea and maritime way of life is reflected in the simple but elegant lines of our coastal homes. The wealth produced during
the "Golden Age of Sail" and by the lumber barons, is clearly reflected in the size and grandeur of the homes found in
local communities.
These properties are a valuable resource, which the people of our district are proud to preserve and protect.
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Digby History
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Before 1783 the land within this District was sparsely populated with a few farmers, Acadians, natives, and seasonal fishermen from
the New England coast.
In 1783 thousands of United Empire Loyalists settled the land. The population exploded, but many of the cultured
Loyalists found the forbidding wilderness too much to endure and moved back to the U.S. or to Upper Canada.
The Municipality of Digby was known then as the township of Annapolis. Digby became a county separate from
Annapolis county in 1839 but shared the same Council. In 1879 the Municipality of the District of Digby became
incorporated, governed by its own council.
Today the Municipality is known for its world famous Digby scallops, prized mink pelts, beautiful scenery and
generous friendly people. Digby County is a good place to live and work. The ocean, lakes and natural wilderness are gems
to be enjoyed by those who are lucky enough to live here and visit. Welcome!
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Information Request
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If you can't find the information you're looking for, please don't hesitate to
contact us.
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