About Us
Established in 1989, the Black Loyalist Heritage Society is a dynamic, charitable organization committed to discovering, interpreting, safeguarding, and promoting the history and heritage of the Black Loyalists.
Plan Your Visit
Come and enjoy a guided tour, search for your ancestral roots, and learn about the Black Loyalists inside our interpretive centre.
There is lots to see and do, so be prepared to spend some time with us.
History
The home of the largest free black settlement in the 1780’s where people voted with their feet for freedom. This unique historical site is nestled in beautiful Birchtown Bay on the western shores of Shelburne Harbour, the third largest natural harbour in the world.
Discover the Black Loyalist Heritage Centre!
WHAT'S NEW?
THE BLACK LOYALIST HERITAGE SOCIETY
Established in 1989, the Black Loyalist Heritage Society is a dynamic, charitable organization committed to discovering, interpreting, safeguarding, and promoting the history and heritage of the Black Loyalists. For over thirty years, the society has worked to ensure the chronicles and contributions of the Black Loyalists takes its place with other communities that shape Canada’s cultural mosaic.
3k
Black Loyalists
Recorded in the Book of Negroes, Black Loyalists arrived in several ports around Nova Scotia and New Brunswick following the end of the American Revolution.
38+
Since their arrival in 1783, Black Loyalists have established and formed communities across Nova Scotia including Birchtown, Preston, and Upper Big Tracadie.
16k+
Artifacts Found
These artifacts date back to the Black Loyalist period, and were discovered across Birchtown, proving the area’s historical significance.
1.5M
Dollars Raised
Over several years the Heritage Society fundraised money to construct the Black Loyalist Heritage Centre, a state-of-the-art museum honouring the Black Loyalists.
200+
Donors
Generous support from individuals and organizations allowed the society to meet their goal and see the dream of the Black Loyalist Heritage Centre become a reality.
40k+
Visitors
Since our grand opening in June of 2015, the Black Loyalist Heritage Centre has welcomed thousands of visitors from across the globe to discover our story.
BOARD MEMBER RECRUITMENT
The Black Loyalist Heritage Society Board of Directors is recruiting New Board Members — and we’re looking for passionate people just like YOU to help guide our future.
Do you believe in the power of stories to shape our future? Do you get goosebumps when you walk through the museum and feel the history that’s there. We might just have a seat at our table with your name on it!
Our Vision: To celebrate the rich legacy of the Black Loyalists as a vital thread in the fabric of Canadian heritage.
Our Purpose: To honour and safeguard their enduring legacy.
Our Mission: To empower descendants, foster equity, and inspire recognition of the Black Loyalist story.
Our Core Values: We’re grounded in Equity & Belonging, fueled by Dedication, and led by Integrity. If this sounds like your kind of people, we want to hear from you!
Whether you’re a lifelong advocate, a newcomer to the story, or just someone who loves a good board meeting with purpose, now’s your time to lead, uplift, and connect.
No formal board experience is required—just heart, commitment, and a willingness to help shape the future.
Email us at blackloyalist@blackloyalist.com to apply.
Deadline: Friday, April 24th, 2026.
Let’s make history—together.