Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate the community of Beechville on its 200th anniversary. Beechville, which was originally called Beech Hill, was first settled in 1814 by men and women of African descent. The settlers were refugees from the United States who escaped slavery during the War of 1812. Despite facing many hardships, the residents of Beechville have endured and have made significant contributions to the culture of Nova Scotia.
I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Beechville's proud history.