Hebron, Labrador, Canada

A former mission town with Inuit history.

A rugged, high-angle shot of the dramatic rocky coastline of Hebron, Labrador, with waves crashing against the jagged cliffs and dark blue water stretching to the horizon.

Overview

Hebron, Labrador, Canada Cruise Port

Hebron is an abandoned Moravian mission settlement located on the remote northern coast of Labrador, in the Canadian province of Newfoundland and Labrador. Established in 1830 by Moravian missionaries, it served as a significant trading post, school, and spiritual center for the Inuit communities of northern Labrador for over 130 years. The settlement was eventually closed and its inhabitants forcibly relocated in 1959, an event that had profound and lasting negative impacts on the Inuit of the region.

Today, Hebron stands as a stark and poignant reminder of a complex past, with several original Moravian mission buildings remarkably preserved against the harsh Arctic environment. It is a site of immense cultural significance for the Labrador Inuit, representing a period of both profound change and enduring resilience. The remote location, accessible only by sea or air, adds to its powerful sense of isolation and historical weight.

Top Things to Do in Hebron, Labrador, Canada

Explore the Moravian Mission Buildings

Wander among the remarkably preserved Moravian mission buildings, including the church, mission house, and various outbuildings. These structures stand as silent witnesses to Hebron's active past and provide a tangible link to the missionaries' presence.

Tip: Treat the site with utmost respect. These are historical structures in a vulnerable Arctic environment, and some may be unstable. Do not disturb any artifacts.

Visit the Hebron Cemetery

Pay respects at the Hebron Cemetery, a somber but important site that reflects the generations of Inuit and missionaries who lived and died here. It offers a quiet place for reflection on the community's history.

Tip: Be mindful of the delicate permafrost environment; stick to established paths if present, and observe respectfully.

Witness the Arctic Landscape and Coastal Views

Immerse yourself in the breathtaking rugged Arctic landscape surrounding Hebron. Enjoy panoramic views of the raw, treeless coastline, the vast Labrador Sea, and the dramatic backdrop of the Torngat Mountains in the distance.

Tip: The light in the Arctic can be extraordinary for photography, especially during the long summer days. Dress in layers, as the weather can change rapidly.

Reflect on the Community's History and Relocation

Take time to reflect on the profound history of Hebron, particularly the forced relocation of the Inuit in 1959. This site serves as a powerful reminder of difficult past policies and the resilience of the Inuit people.

Tip: Consider reading up on the history of the Labrador Inuit and the resettlement program before your visit to gain a deeper appreciation for the site's significance.

Look for Arctic Wildlife (Seabirds, Marine Mammals)

Keep an eye out for Arctic wildlife in the area. Various seabirds frequent the coast, and you might spot seals, and occasionally whales (like humpbacks or belugas) in the waters offshore, especially during summer months.

Tip: Bring binoculars for better wildlife viewing. Always observe wildlife from a safe and respectful distance.

Experience the Arctic's Quietude and Isolation

Embrace the profound quietude and sense of isolation that defines Hebron. This remote location offers a unique opportunity to disconnect and experience the vast, untouched wilderness of the Canadian North.

Tip: Take a moment to simply sit and absorb the silence, broken only by the sounds of the wind and the sea. This is a truly unique aspect of visiting Hebron.

Overview