Gladee's at Hirtle' s Beach
Our day in Lunenburg
Gladee's is a charming, 15 minute drive away from the historic town of Lunenburg on the South Shore of Nova Scotia. Here's my take on Lunenburg:
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This UNESCO World Herritage Site overflows with Great things for the traveler to discover and enjoy. Settled in 1753, it is considered one of Canada's finest examples of 19th Century streetscapes. As well, it's a present-day home to a wide pallette of remarkable artists and artisans.
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In 2000, it was recognized for its colour scheme by being declared National Co-winner of Canada's Prettiest Painted Places. Of special interest to all you green thumbs out there, the year before, Lunenburg was named the national winner in Canada's Community in Bloom contest.
I'll point you towards some of my favourite spots to visit. I'll introduce you to important destinations such as Lunenburg's Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic. A neighbouring, locally made monument stands as a handsome, poignant tribute to those brave souls lost at sea while plying their trade.
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Along the way, I won't forget the fun so look out! Here comes a feast of whimsical wild carvings, wonderful dress shops, festivals, the Lunenburg bump and the Lunenburg dory. After all that, I've worked up an appetite -- some fresh seafood or a sizzling steak sounds perfect.
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Although Gladee's at Hirtle's Beach is a perfect vacation destination, why not take a break from the kitchen and head for Lunenburg's eateries? Rest assured, Gladee’s will be waiting to welcome you back at day's end.
I've lived here all my life, yet I never grow tired of exploring Lunenburg County. My wife Suzanne, our camera and I recently spent a wonderful day visiting the historic town. This is my idea of some of the best it has to offer:
Bluenose II is the flag ship of Nova Scotia. As was the original Bluenose, this replica was built in Lunenburg by shipwrights and support trades considered among the finest in the world.
The main mast of the Bluenose traditionally came from County forests.
Over the centuries, Lunenburg prospered by harvesting the fishery. In 1888, the town recorded 193 "salt bankers" employing nearly 5,000 men. Their success demanded fast, dependable sail-powered wooden vessels.
Shipbuilding called on a fleet of fine craftsmen known far-and-wide for their superior skill: shipwrights, painters, caulkers, sailmakers, blockmakers, riggers and blacksmiths. The foundry produced stoves for heating and cooking. Outfitters delivered enough provisions to look after the hard-working crew for up to four months at sea.
In 1920, the Bluenose was launched. The fine fishing schooner never lost a race to her American counterparts. Her sleek lines and huge heart are memorialized on the Canadian 10 cent piece.
In 1963, Lunenburg's shipwrights and support crews launched a replica, Bluenose II. If she's in her homeport while you're in Lunenburg, be sure to make her acquaintance. If not, visit the remarkable Bluenose exhibit at the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic. Buy a souvenir at the Bluenose Company Store -- you'll help her stay afloat.
The Cape Sable, a former sea-going side dragger, now catches visitors at the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic.
The Theresa E. Connor is a pretty Grand Banks fishing schooner. She calls the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic, her home port. Step aboard and visit some "Old Salts." They're expert at spinning yarns about the treacherous North Atlantic seas.
Trot in Time offers a leisurely guided tour of its UNESCO World Heritage Site.
My wife, Suzanne, is getting scooped by some delicious home-made ice cream.
St. John's is Canada's second oldest Anglican church, dating back to 1754. The church was completed in 1763. In 1840, the original tower was replaced with a Gothic tribute measuring 12 feet square and 70 feet high. By 1875, the church was moved 25 feet, completely reconditioned and Gothicized.
In late 2001, a heart-broken community watched, disbelieving as their beautiful church was ravaged by fire. In December of that year, over 90 percent of the congregation voted in favour of restoring the National Heritage Site. The project's last phase will be completed late 2005. The final price tag is estimated at nearly $7 million Canadian.
Lunenburg's St. John's Anglican Church is one of Canada's most striking early wooden churches and possibly the finest example of the "Carpenter Gothic" style.
Lunenburg's six outstanding church buildings are excellent examples of traditional wood construction.
In 1865, Central United Church was sawn in half. The growing congregation's unusual project gave way for another 10 feet to be added in the middle. In 1871, a further 20 feet was added. When the new church was opened in 1885, 1500 people attended the service.
At one time the spire was 75 feet tall. It was later shortened, then covered with the copper cap as seen today. Click here for more photos and info on Lunenburg's great achitecture
The Heritage Bandstand is the site of many happy, entertainment-filled days.
This pair of mackeral and codfish is part of the town's tribute to her seafaring history
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Golfing with a spectacular view. In 1929, the idea of a golf course as a tourist attraction, took root among Lunenburg's citizens. The course became a reality when Edwin Kaulbach agreed to lease his farmland. The lease continues to this day, under Ronald Kaulbach, Edwin's grandson.
The Bluenose Golf Club was officially opened July 8, 1933. Its clubhouse and many of the course's holes offer some of the best views of this seaside town. The course, although short in yardage, challenges the golfer with rolling and sloping fairways, small greens, and well-placed bunkers and trees. The signature hole is number 4, a 146 yard, par 3, featuring an elevated tee to a small green protected by trees on either side. A deep bunker on the left and some unpredictable ocean breezes add to the difficulty.
Just 10 minutes outside of Lunenburg is the town of Mahone bay. They have a really good Scarecrow festival there in October.