Our Plans for the Future

In 2003, Sir Joseph Rotblat expressed the wish that the role Pugwash had played in the momentous events of the latter part of the 20^th century be recognized in a permanent institution in the town of Pugwash in Nova Scotia, Canada.

“Jo” as he was known in Pugwash became the first Patron of what was to become the Pugwash Peace Exchange. His enthusiasm was boundless for the concept, to the extent that he wanted both his records and his Nobel Peace Prize medallion to be housed in the village. After exploring all possibilities, it was recognized that a suitable complex did not exist, and so the planning and development of the Pugwash Peace Exchange facility began in earnest.

The immediate future involves the restoration of Cyrus Eaton’s original property, now owned and managed by the Pugwash Park Commission. The property includes the Thinkers’ Lodge, which was home of the first conference in 1957 and is viewed as sacred ground by the International Pugwash Movements. As well, the original Dining Hall will be repaired and restored, to be used during conferences and events. In addition, the original structure known as the Staff House will be updated and improved to serve as the “Scholars’ Cottage” and will be used to accommodate smaller meetings and housing for visiting scholars.

A new building, known simply as the Pugwash Peace Exchange, will be constructed to exhibit an abundance of historical documents never before available to the general public, and will facilitate learning, research, and thinking in an environmentally sensitive 9,000 square foot facility. This structure will be located on property adjacent to the two mentioned above and will celebrate the history of the Pugwash movement, the role that Pugwash has played in world peace in the past 50 years. It will also house the Nobel Peace Prize medallion of Sir Joseph Rotblat. The goal is to provide a world class interpretive, educational, and research facility for the world to visit, so they can share in the history and future of peace.

Currently, the Pugwash Peace Exchange is in the process of raising funds for the development and creation of a site and interpretive plan. This plan will detail the appearance and location of the new facility, as well as the exhibits and educational programs contained therein. It will also detail how the historic buildings will mesh with the new building, into a comprehensive educational and interpretive facility -- one that will bring the world to our region.

Please join us in this restorative process to recognize the need for peace and celebrate the rich history this landmark will provide to the world.

For more information, please contact us.