Historic Dining Room Port Royal National Historic Site Nova Scotia

The interior of the Common Room/dining room at the Port Royal National Historic Site near Annapolis Royal in Nova Scotia, Canada.

A stop for visitors to the Port Royal National Historic Site in Nova Scotia, Canada, now known as the Port Royal Habitation, is to see the dining room or common room once used by the French during the 17th century. The colony of French people settled along the Nova Scotia coast and the reconstruction of their lives was built here so people could learn of this period.

An old brick fireplace where a pot is hung to warm food, pewter table settings which date back many years and a cabinet with antique dishes are part of the decor in the dining room. Huge wooden beams were used in the construction of the Common Room and the large wooden tables and benches is where these people enjoyed their meals and wine.

"The Order of Good Cheer" was proposed by a man named Samuel de Champlain back in 1606-07 which ensured the prominent men were served good food and good times in this dining room. These feasts were held every few days and chiefs of the different tribes were often included in these meals.