About Us
La Corporation du Bourg de Pabos: over 40 years of history
The management, protection, and development of the Pabos archaeological site were entrusted in 1981 to a non-profit organization born of a citizens’ movement: the Corporation du Bourg de Pabos.
In the wake of the adoption of the government regulation officially classifying the “archaeological and historical site of the Pabos commercial fishing complex” in July 1975, a number of stakeholders put forward concrete proposals for a proper excavation and to set up a temporary museum. To convince the government, they went so far as to offer free premises, skilled labour, and specialized equipment. But it was to no avail.
Citizen anger mounted as a number of actions compromised the integrity of the heritage site, whose archaeological potential had long been known to local residents. In 1978, for example, the Ministry of the Environment decided to bury the carcass of a whale that had washed up on the beach in the middle of the site, giving free rein to the trucks and cranes needed for the task, in clear violation of the Cultural Property Act by which the site had been classified a few years earlier.
Finally, in 1981, the Corporation du Bourg de Pabos was founded. From 1981 to 1987, the Corporation oversaw archaeological excavations and the production of a historical document. This pivotal phase was masterfully led by renowned archaeologist Pierre Nadon, whose work at Forges-Saint-Maurice had been exemplary. In 1988, the Corporation presented a development project to the two levels of government – the interpretive centre and the very first permanent exhibit. Accepted in 1990 as part of a federal–provincial agreement, the project required a substantial investment from the community to receive authorization to proceed.
Galvanized, residents quickly launched a historic fundraising campaign, and the goals were met in 1992. The interpretive centre was built the following year and opened its doors in 1994, operating under the name “Parc du Bourg de Pabos”. The originality of the building and its perfect integration into an exceptional environment earned it two architectural awards. Mindful of these criteria, the Corporation also launched a major architectural competition to find partners who shared its vision.
Galvanized, residents quickly launched a historic fundraising campaign, and the goals were met in 1992.
The interpretive centre was built the following year and opened its doors in 1994, operating under the name “Parc du Bourg de Pabos”. The originality of the building and its perfect integration into an exceptional environment earned it two architectural awards. Mindful of these criteria, the Corporation also launched a major architectural competition to find partners who shared its vision.
Growing by putting down deeper roots
Over the past 30 years, the site has undergone major changes, with each step forward driven by the mission to preserve and enhance the archaeological site and its heritage.
The campground got off to a timid start in 1995, offering 12 campsites. It then grew slowly, focusing on integration with the archaeological site, until it earned Camping Québec’s prestigious 4-star rating. This recognition, combined with new recreational facilities, has made it possible for the site to reach new heights in terms of number of visitors. With an excellent reputation for the privacy and cleanliness of its facilities, NAPAGA Campground now boasts over 215 highly coveted campsites.
In 2011, the Corporation partially renovated the permanent exhibit, increasing its interactivity. A few years later, a second permanent exhibit was added, dedicated to the King Brothers sawmill, thanks to which the Gaspé timber industry boomed in the 1890s. Over the years, several temporary exhibits and innovative immersive interpretive activities have also been added to the museum’s programming to showcase the living heritage and make it accessible, through ruins, building remains, and some 16,000 artifacts unearthed during archaeological digs.
In 2012, together with the city of Chandler, the Corporation embarked on a major tourism project: the “Circuit des Bâtisseurs”. In less than a year, a 145.70-metre aluminium footbridge was built. It connects Chandler and Pabos Mills by crossing the mouth of Pabos Bay and Baie des Chaleurs, and links the archaeological site’s network of cycling and pedestrian paths to that of the Circuit des Bâtisseurs. This aluminum footbridge, the longest in the world, is making Chandler world-famous!
A renewed identity: Espace NAPAGA
In 2025, to reflect this progress and its vision, the Corporation du Bourg de Pabos is overhauling its services, strengthening its governance, and adopting a new brand identity: Espace NAPAGA – nature and archaeology at Pabos Mills on the Gaspé Peninsula.
What Defines Us
We bring together history, learning, and culture through the well-being of living on the Gaspé Peninsula.
We carry on this tradition from the heritage home of Pabos Mills, making archaeology the beating heart of discovery on the Gaspé Peninsula.
We believe that the stories of our land teach us to appreciate its beauty and to be grateful for what it has to say.
Espace NAPAGA is proud to have a committed community that brings its mission to life.
The team
Fully committed to her role, she leverages her expertise in communications to promote the mission and activities of the organization. Driven by her proactivity and her passion for the history and heritage of Gaspésie, she ensures the responsible development of the institution and the vitality of Espace NAPAGA, while fostering public and partner engagement.
With extensive experience as a consultant, Alan is a valuable asset to daily operations and administrative support. He dedicates his time and heart to the organization, contributing with passion and commitment to its growth and vitality.
With her radiant energy and contagious enthusiasm, Camillia is a true heritage enthusiast. A key reference in the organization’s history, she has developed an in-depth knowledge of the site as well as the issues related to its conservation and protection. Thanks to her expertise and her talent for making complex information accessible, she also plays a key role in cultural outreach initiatives, bringing heritage to life for the public with passion and vibrancy.
Governance
Cultural mediation
Description of educational programs for schools, groups, and the general public.
Partners and collaborations
List of local and institutional partners, collaborations with universities and researchers, etc., including official recognition as an accredited museum institution.
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