The Musée de la Mer in Havre-Aubert, located at Cape Gridley on the historic site of La Grave in the Magdalen Islands, is perched proudly on one of the region's most stunning vantage points. Since moving to this location in 1974, after spending its early years in the former parish hall of Havre following its 1969 founding, the museum has played a leading role in preserving the maritime and cultural heritage of the islands.
This mission is carried out through research, conservation, public education, and showcasing the unique insular identity that shapes life for the people of the Magdalen Islands.
For those who love striking features in museums, a highlight greets visitors in the main hall of this expanded and renovated building (completed in 2011): a whale skeleton suspended dramatically from the ceiling.
A historical note: In May 2008, a sperm whale washed ashore near Pointe-aux-Loups. After confirming its death, a group of Magdalen Islanders decided to exhibit the skeleton at the museum. Led by Claude Bourque, Pierre-Henry Fontaine, and Paul Grégoire, along with 20 other volunteers, the group spent three days dissecting the carcass. The bones were meticulously cleaned and numbered, and after over six years of preparation, the 215 bones were reassembled and installed in the museum’s main hall in December 2014.
Since late 2022, Gabrielle Leblanc has been the museum's director. She continues the work of its founder, Father Frédéric Landry, who led the museum for over 30 years. With a background in political science, literature, and project management, Ms. Leblanc has been active in the cultural and heritage sector for many years. From 2008 to 2021, she served as supervisor of cultural activities and as a cultural heritage and library coordinator for the Municipality of the Magdalen Islands.
On August 8, 1969, the Museum of the Islands was inaugurated in the presence of Quebec Premier Jean-Jacques Bertrand. In 1972, the museum relocated and was renamed Musée de la Mer. The Quebec government provided a $200,000 grant to construct a dedicated building for the museum.
Engaging Exhibitions and Captivating Activities
"The Musée de la Mer provides an immersive experience into Magdalen culture through its year-round exhibitions and activities. Visitors can expect a warm welcome from our inspiring and passionate staff, as well as outstanding permanent and temporary exhibitions suitable for the whole family," says Gabrielle Leblanc.
The permanent exhibition "Living on the Islands, Living the Islands," along with rotating displays featuring local artists, genealogical resources, maritime artifacts, and lectures, awaits the many visitors each year. Topics range from fishing traditions to shipwrecks, offering something for both locals and tourists.
From May to October 2023, visitors can explore Annie Morin’s multidisciplinary exhibit, "A Walk on the Ocean Floor." This stunning showcase features sculptural and pictorial works inspired by the organic forms of the ocean and the interplay between its fragility and strength.
A notable event occurred in February 1971 when the museum hosted the exhibit "The Moon Lands on the Islands," featuring moon rocks brought back by Apollo 11 in 1969.
In July 1987, the Islands Aquarium was inaugurated in the historic Saltworks building at La Grave. It showcased the flora and fauna of the Gulf of Saint Lawrence. Although its focus shifted in 2017, the building now features a second-floor exhibition on La Grave’s history and cultural activities on the ground floor during summer. Experts are working to secure the 1895 structure to preserve its heritage.
The Musée de la Mer is a non-profit organization managed by a board chaired by Normand Thellab. It employs a multidisciplinary team and hosts researchers in archaeology and forensic anthropology each summer.
Musée de la Mer
museedelamer-im.com
1023, chemin De La Grave
Havre-Aubert, QC G4T 9C8
418 937-5711
The owner, Keegan Rose
