Lawrence Paul (Millbrook First Nation) facts for kids
Lawrence Alexander Paul (born July 23, 1934 – died May 28, 2014) was an important leader of the Millbrook First Nation in Nova Scotia, Canada. He first became a band councillor in 1974. Then, in 1984, he was elected Chief. He stayed in this role until 2012. People remember him for his strong leadership. He helped turn Millbrook First Nation into a successful economic community in Nova Scotia.
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Life and Work
Lawrence Paul was born in Saint John, New Brunswick. He was one of 14 children. When he was one year old, his family moved to the Shubenacadie Indian Reserve in Nova Scotia. This area is now called Indian Brook Indian Reserve No. 14.
As a young man, he joined the Canadian Army. After that, he worked in different jobs. He helped with fishing rules, fixed cars, worked in construction, and managed money. He also worked to help the community grow economically.
Becoming a Leader
In 1974, Lawrence Paul was elected as a band councillor. A band councillor is like a community leader who helps make decisions for the First Nation. He served for four years. He was elected to the council again in 1980.
In 1984, he successfully ran for Chief of the Millbrook Band. At that time, the band had a lot of debt. But within just two years, Chief Paul helped pay off all the debt. He then started new plans to help the community's economy grow.
Building a Strong Economy
Chief Paul believed that the Millbrook First Nation could succeed by using its own strengths. He also worked with other groups and governments. For example, in 2009, he helped the Band join a regional economic group called CORDA.
In the early 2000s, under his leadership, the Band got money from the government. They used this money to build a highway interchange. This connected the Millbrook Reserve to Nova Scotia Highway 102. This connection made it easier for businesses to come to the area.
Truro Power Centre
Because of the new highway connection, the Truro Power Centre was built next to the interchange. The Millbrook First Nation now leases land there to different businesses. These include popular places like Tim Hortons, A&W, and a Super 8 Motel. There is also a Sobeys/Empire (Studio 7 Cinema) nearby.
An aquaculture facility is also located on the site. This is a special farm that raises Arctic Char fish. It is owned by the Band. A new housing area was also built close by.
Other Projects
Chief Paul also led other important projects on Band-owned lands in Nova Scotia. These included:
- A new building for a helicopter support facility in Cole Harbour.
- A project to create wind energy.
- Plans for a deep-water port in Melford, Nova Scotia.
- Developing wharf facilities and fishing fleets in Sheet Harbour and Joggins.
Later Years
Lawrence Paul won 14 elections in a row as Chief. Each term lasted two years. In 2012, he was defeated by Robert Gloade. After that, Paul thought about running for Chief of the Indian Brook community. He did run there but was not elected.
He continued to guide and advise members of the Band Council until he passed away in May 2014.
Awards and Recognition
Lawrence Paul received many awards for his hard work and dedication to the Millbrook First Nation.
- In 2004, he won the Individual Economic Developer of the Year Award from CANDO. CANDO stands for the Canadian Aboriginal Economic Development Officers.
- He also received an honorary Doctor of Laws degree from Saint Mary's University. This is a special award given to people who have made a big difference.
Family Life
Lawrence Paul was married three times. He had seven children: Terry, Sharon, Jack, Cindy, Shawn, Lance, and Chantelle. Sadly, Shawn passed away when he was young. His brother, Daniel N. Paul, is a well-known writer and historian.
