Beth McNeill: Captivated by History
Beth McNeill grew up with an imagination captivated by history, but it wasn’t until midway through her university degree before she realized that the past had an active role to play in the present-tense of community life. A summer spent working with the Tantramar Heritage Trust in Sackville, New Brunswick suggested that a childhood fascination with historical fiction novels and museums could translate into relevant career pathways. Although not every day may bring the chance to explore a former cast iron foundry or oceanside graveyard, or to participate in square dancing and poetry readings, as that particular summer did, Beth remains enchanted by the power of heritage to bring people together.
“I appreciate the sense of community that comes from heritage. It is a grounding aspect of our lives.”
A late-night internet search led Beth to Carleton University to pursue an MA in Public History. She was drawn to the program’s emphasis on history as an active site of public engagement, from museums and archives, to government and pop culture. Her major research project examined how costumed interpreters at living history museums utilized humour in their professional interactions with museum visitors, and how joking informed their sense of cultural and personal authenticity in their work. Overall, this experience helped to shape Beth’s philosophy of heritage as a community-oriented project driven by human connection.
Beth maintains an enthusiasm for cultural creation in all forms. Prior to joining the National Trust this past September, Beth interned at Library and Archives Canada in the Government Archives Division, assisting archivists with the handling and processing of materials in our national memory institution. While at Carleton, she worked part-time at a music school and performance venue, working and connecting with local performers and music fans from behind the front counter.
At the National Trust, Beth provides administrative assistance for the executive team and Board of Governors, helping to ensure the smooth day-to-day operation of the organization. She also provides program support on the Young Canada Works file, helping to distribute funds to heritage organizations across the country to create student jobs in the sector. As an emerging heritage professional, she notes her gratitude for the chance to launch her career with an organization dedicated to facilitating community empowerment through heritage resources.
“What I like best about working at the Trust is that it is a small organization,” notes Beth. “You have the opportunity to dip into different areas of the work.”
When not at the Trust, Beth enjoys picking up her latest stack of holds from the library, biking and running along the Rideau Canal, or checking out a film at one of Ottawa’s independent cinemas. She is excited by the chance to continue connecting with heritage-enthusiasts in Ottawa and beyond through her work.
