About


Mission 

Gaspé, Birthplace of Canada’s mission is to promote the rich history of the town of Gaspé and its inhabitants, from the First Nations to the present day. To achieve this, it implements conservation, democratization, awareness-raising and mediation initiatives aimed at local and tourist audiences of all ages. 

A place full of history 

Discover the importance of Gaspé as the Birthplace of Canada and highlight the achievements of its inhabitants. 

Several cultures, a community 

To provide a gathering place for locals and tourists alike to share and discover the town’s cultural heritage. 

2025 Board of Directors 

  • Nadia Brodeur, President 
  • Gilles Boulet, Vice President 
  • Marie-Pierre Huard, Treasurer 
  • Jean-Yves Dupuis, Director 
  • Anne Joncas-Côté, Secretary 
  • Jeffrey Patterson, Director 
  • Madeleine Synnott, Director 
  • Kalika Sinnett, Micmac Nation of Gespeg Representative 
  • James Keays, City of Gaspé Representative 

Fabien Sinnett, Founder

Mr. Fabien Sinnett is the driving force behind the Gaspé, Birthplace of Canada project. Fabien’s tenacity, commitment and vision led him to create the Gaspé, Birthplace of Canada corporation in 2002. The idea was to give people back a way to learn about the history of the Gaspé and to have a meeting place in the heart of the city, on the waterfront. 

He believed in the project, and one thing led to another, rallying people and finding the partners and funding needed to make this unifying project a reality. Since its inauguration in 2016, the site has become a popular destination. The Birthplace of Canada has become the “heart of downtown” and is frequented by locals and visitors alike. 

HISTORY OF THE PROJECT AND CONSTRUCTION 

Since 2002, Corporation Gaspé, Berceau du Canada has been working to develop the Birthplace of Canada project. Construction of the site began in the summer of 2012, in collaboration with the town of Gaspé. 

The primary goal of the project was to give Gaspé residents back access to the river by creating a riverside park on the York River. 

The construction of this site led to the addition of a wharf. The redevelopment of the road opened up a space for public gatherings. As a result, this interpretation site on the history of Gaspé has become a major tourist attraction for the region. 

Comprising an original heritage residence and six reconstructed buildings, the site offers a representation of the heart of the village of Gaspé as it was at the beginning of the 20th century. The complex includes a warehouse, a tavern, a shop, a general shop, a water base, a residence and a naval base. 

Each building has its own interpretation zone, featuring antiques from private collections, interpretation panels and historical displays. With works of art and reconstructions from the period, this site offers a vision of the history of Gaspé in a user-friendly setting accessible to the public. 

The historic site completes the overall Birthplace of Canada project.  A heritage trail is available in the form of a guided tour, a printed guide and a web application. 

I contribute to Le Berceau 

Financial donation 

Would you like to make a financial contribution to the mission of Birthplace of Canada? Click here

A tax receipt will be issued. 

OR I send my cheque to Gaspé, Berceau du Canada, 179, montée Wakeham, CP 5117, Gaspé (QC) G4X 6G7 

Become a season partner 

The Birthplace of Canada is supported by a number of invaluable partners. Their contributions make it possible to offer exceptional programming and a memorable museum experience on the Birthplace site, for locals and visitors alike. 

To consult our sponsorship plan, click here

Interested? Contact Virginie Giteau at [email protected] 

Join our team of volunteers 

Do you have a passion for historical heritage or gardening? Would you like to support the Berceau team at one or more events? 

Profile required 

  • Willingness to work outdoors 
  • No specialization required 
  • Available for a few hours at a time to suit your schedule 

There’s definitely a place for you! 

Benefits 

  • 15% discount at the MMQ boutique and café 
  • Complimentary coffee (or other beverage) on your volunteer day 
  • Work in an exceptional setting on the waterfront and in downtown Gaspé 
  • Work with a friendly team committed to stimulating projects 
  • After 14 hours of volunteer work, you’ll receive your annual membership card. 

How to share your interest  
Contact Roxanne Dufresne [email protected] today for more information or to register!