Fredericton (February 28, 2011) – A series of 10 panels exploring the history of the Historic Garrison District in downtown Fredericton will be officially opened in the City Hall Art Gallery on Thursday, March 3 during a reception from 5 – 7 p.m.

The exhibit, entitled In Close Quarters, highlights the often tumultuous relationship between a 19th Century military post and the civilian community it serves. It explores the social dimension of a garrison, an often neglected aspect of military history.

“These vignettes are both entertaining and engaging,” said Councillor Stephen Chase, Chair of the City’s Development Committee. “We are very pleased to partner with the Fredericton Region Museum to display this exhibit here at City Hall.”

Curated by a team of volunteers, each vignette has its own separate identity around a similar theme. 

Topics explored in the panels include Juliana and Rex Ewing, the Infantry School Corps, a dramatic assassination attempt, British Regiments in Fredericton, Officers’ Square as a venue for both military and social activities, and more.

In Close Quarters was produced by Fredericton Region Museum (formerly the York Sunbury Museum). It will remain on display at City Hall until March 18.  Gallery hours are Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.  Afterwards, it will be exhibited in the Fredericton Region Museum at 571 Queen Street.

This project was supported by the City of Fredericton through a 2010 Arts, Culture & Heritage Funding Program project grant.

Media Contacts: Angela Watson, Cultural Development Officer, City of Fredericton, 460-2411; Ruth Murgatroyd, Executive Director, York Sunbury Historical Society & Fredericton Region Museum, 455-6041.