About the Cole Harbour Rural Heritage Society
The C.H.R.H.S. is a non-profit organization that relies on community support.
Cole Harbour Meeting House
The Society's first project, in 1973, was to take on the task of preserving the former Methodist Chapel at the top of Long Hill. Details of its history gradually emerged through many years of dedicated research. Some restoration work has been attempted but basic maintenance consumes most of the funds raised. There are exciting possibilities for restoring the interior to an 1870s period when it underwent its first renovation. Less is known about its original 1830s appearance.
Recently the building, now known as the Cole Harbour Meeting House, has been designated a provincial heritage property. This was largely based on information showing it to be one of the most important remaining sites in the history of Methodism in the Maritimes. It was the site of the recreation of an early 19th century service during the 1998 national Methodist Historical Society conference.
It is used occasionally for ecumenical services such as the annual Harvest Service, exhibits, and special events. It is also available for weddings and other appropriate uses.
Cole Harbour Heritage Park
One of the Society's most demanding roles continues to be its efforts to protect and raise awareness of the natural history of the Cole Harbour area.
The view from Long Hill, which is the CHRHS logo
Beginning with the view from Long Hill, the Society's logo, it has actively advocated protection of the saltmarsh and surrounding lands, views, watercourses, and wildlife habitat. Education and promotion are backed by research and recording.
Over a quarter century of information gathering, public education and enthusiastic advocacy has been, in large part, the catalyst for acquisition of large tracts of land by the province for the Cole Harbour/Lawrencetown Coastal Heritage Park System. The newest addition to this park system is the Cole Harbour Heritage Park on Bisset Road. The Society maintains an active role in promoting limited and careful use of this and other sensitive lands in and around the saltmarsh.