The Ship Hector replica story
In 1989 the Town of Pictou created the Pictou Waterfront Development Corporation to oversee an extensive revitalization of the Pictou waterfront.
A key component of this project was the construction of a Ship Hector replica. The keel of the Ship Hector replica was started in August 1990 and after ten years of construction, the replica Hector was launched with great celebration in September 2000. In 2010, the replica and building was purchased from the Town of Pictou by the Ship Hector Society, a volunteer organization that oversees the operation of the Hector Heritage Quay, an interpretive centre alongside the replica.
The Hector Heritage Quay provides information and a unique guest experience that tells the story of the voyage of the Ship Hector in 1773. People from around he world visit the Quay each year to learn the story and see the replica. The highlight for most visitors is seeing the “below deck” living quarters for the 189 passengers on the 10 week voyage from Scotland.
Some of the visitors to Pictou and the Quay are descendants of Ship Hector passengers. Many more have Scottish roots and believe they might be but have not confirmed a direct connection.
The Ship Hector Descendant Project hopes to help people solve their family puzzle, confirm their family’s ancestry and maybe connect with long lost cousins.