Bathurst Finalist Battles to Win $50K for Reviving Historical Home

An organization from New Brunswick is looking to receive significant assistance to restore a historical landmark.

The Doucet Hennessy House in Bathurst has been shortlisted as a finalist in the Next Great Save, a contest organized by the non-profit organization known as the National Trust for Canada. The prize includes an award of $50,000 aimed at helping with the preservation or restoration of a historic site.

Melynda Jarratt, who leads the Doucet Hennessy House Association, mentioned that numerous historic places across Canada deserve recognition. Nevertheless, she believed it was worthwhile to submit an entry.

She remarked, 'I figured, why not? It’s an opportunity.' She added, ‘If you don’t submit your application, it’s similar to hitting the lottery jackpot; without buying a ticket, there’s no way to claim the prize.’

Being selected was akin to receiving a college diploma, remarked Jarratt. "I tossed my cap into the sky with joy!"

The Doucet Hennessy House is over two centuries old. Located atop a hill on St. Peter Avenue, offering views of the Bay of Chaleur, this property initially served as the residence for the Doucet family before becoming the home of the Hennessy family.

As stated in their contest entry, the dwelling was constructed in 1812 by Charles Doucet, who was of Acadian descent. In the beginning of the twentieth century, this property spanning 200 acres was transferred to the Irish-Scottish clan known as the Hennessys. Today, the residence serves various cultural functions including theater productions, artist-in-residence programs, and art exhibitions.

Jarratt mentioned that the initial stage of the house's renovation has been finished, however, Phase 2 will necessitate additional financial backing.

The main focus in the past was structural repairs and the exterior, she said, while the second phase is focused more on the inside.

Jarratt mentioned that securing the $50,000 prize money would enable the team to tap into various funding sources necessary to finish their project. She explained that for many heritage grants, organizations must demonstrate they can provide a modest amount of funds themselves as part of the application process.

Even a 10 per cent contribution can add up, she said.

"When you're dealing with a $500,000 project, what's an additional 10 percent? That's just 50,000 dollars," stated Jarratt.

It’s challenging to secure funding in Bathurst, just as it is difficult to obtain financial support in an economically disadvantaged area grappling with numerous challenges of its own.

The public vote commenced on Monday and will continue until April 17 when the finalists are announced. In addition to the main award, there are secondary prizes of $10,000 and $5,000 up for grabs.

The finalists consist of three from Newfoundland and Labrador, one from Alberta, two from British Columbia, one from Manitoba, one from Nova Scotia, two from Ontario, and one from Saskatchewan. The Bathurst project is the sole finalist from New Brunswick.

The second phase of the Doucet Hennessy House project has included stripping out the interior of the ground floor, uncovering some 200-year-old ceiling timbers, according to Jarratt.

The installation of new electrical and plumbing systems, creation of new entrances to the rooms, insulation work, and construction of an accessible bathroom remain unfinished tasks. This stage also involves enhancing the home’s energy efficiency through measures such as incorporating solar power.

"This will unlock opportunities within the funding structures that we’ve been trying to access through persistent efforts," stated Jarratt.

This presents an incredible chance for us to finally take the actions needed to reach the finish line.

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