Overview
Established in 1967, the Provincial Archives of New Brunswick collects and preserves
the documents of the people, institutions and government of the province. Most of the
holdings are for the period from 1784, when New Brunswick was made a separate province of
British North America. However, some materials relating to the earlier exploration,
Acadian and pre-Loyalist periods have also been acquired.
Under provincial legislation the Archives has responsibility to assemble, and to make
available for research, records bearing upon the history of New Brunswick. The Records
Management Program ensures the regular transfer and archival retention of all non-current
government records that have permanent legal and historical value. The records of
individuals, churches, businesses and associations are acquired through donation of
original material, and loans for copying.
The documents in the Archives are provincial treasures. Many are fundamental in
protecting the rights and interests of the people, or are essential for understanding and
preserving our heritage and culture. Materials which are not in archives, particularly
those in danger of being lost or destroyed, should be brought to the attention of the
Archives staff.