Marie Jacqueline Bellefontaine

For many, the experience of Acadian culture feels like a welcoming embrace. On Beaubears Island and Wilson's Point, the history of these hearty French-speaking settlers moves from a story of hard times to a joyous celebration right before your eyes.

As you leave the shore behind you and set out for Wilson's Point, a strange sensation settles around the boat. You step ashore in 1756 when Acadian refugees of the Expulsion sought shelter on this small piece of land on the Miramichi shore. As evening falls you have a sense of anticipation for what awaits and the smell of the campfire invites you in. Nearby you can see the graves of the inhabitants of Camp d’Esperance – the encampment of hope.

Your hostess is Marie Jacqueline Bellefontaine, one of the Acadian women forced out of her home in the winter of 1756 and forced to seek shelter with her family near Miramichi. Marie and her ‘children’ evoke the spirit of the times in period costumes and speaking alternately in English and French to adapt their interpretation for visitors. You gather around the roaring campfire, captivated by Marie’s story, joining her singing and the merriment that grows as her family’s history unfolds.

Your heart opens as the children of the troupe bring gifts of tea and food to you, an offering of friendship given freely despite the harsh conditions they faced. And then you witness salvation at hand as the interpretation shifts to a happy celebration of the arrival of a supply vessel.

Now you understand the current of joy and gratitude that runs through Acadian culture, and the songs and instruments feel strangely familiar. While snacking on traditional treats of tea and sticky buns as you return to shore, you look forward to a chance to enjoy the music again.