Middleton was originally known as Gates Ferry, after the original settler, Oldham Gates, who arrived from Massachusets in 1760. Founded in 1810 in the heart of the Annapolis Valley, the town was known in its early days for the the Pearce Hotel. Two railways soon followed – the Windsor/Annapolis as well as the Nova Scotia Central, which added material growth for the town, which promptly added two hotels, the Hatfield House and the American House. Migration into Middleton increased by 1895 when Valley Telephone and the Commercial Bank opened up, but the area was also the best fruit growing region in the country.
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Middleton Attractions
Annapolis Valley Macdonald Museum
21 School St, Middleton, NS, B0S 1P0
(902)825-6116
Housed in the first consolidated school in Canada (in 1903) exhibits include the NS Museum collection of clocks and watches,
a collection of local artifacts, a unique natural history display, recreated classroom and general store, other historical
exhibitions, art gallery featuring the works of Valley artists. Extensive genealogical records pertaining to but not limited
to Annapolis County families, local historical information. Allow 30 minutes. Open year-round: June 15 – Sept 30,
Mon-Sat 9am-5pm, Sun 1-5pm; off-season Mon-Fri 10:30 am-5pm. Admission fee.
Old Holy Trinity Church
49 Main St, Middleton
Constructed in 1789, this beautiful colonial church is the least-altered one of five surviving Loyalist churches in Canada.
Guided tours. Conduct your own brass rubbing of an English Knight or Lady (there’s a nominal cost for materials). Enjoy the
Musique Royale concerts in historical setting. Free admition, or by donation. Open July 1 to August 31.
Oaklawn Farm Zoo
997 Ward Road, exit 16, Hwy 101
(about 15 km north of Middleton)}
RR 1 Aylesford, NS B0P 1C0
(902) 847-9790
Oaklawn is a unique combination of animals in an equally unique farm and garden setting. Animals include striped zebras and tigers, shiny panthers and peacocks, shaggy camels, yaks, spotted leopards, bunnies, gibbons, lions, llamas, deer, goat, etc. Bring a picnic or eat at the canteen. Open March 29-November 17 daily 10:00 am-dusk. Admission fee; group rates.
Pork Barbeque
Middleton Community Hall Association.
657-2172 (Wayne Mingo)
Sponsored by Barbeque chops & sausages with potato salad etc. Held every 2nd Sunday in July at Middleton Community Hall from 12 – 6 pm. Outdoor entertainment.