African Nova Scotian Experiences in Halifax

Step onto the grounds of Africville, recently named Canada’s first UNESCO Place of History and Memory linked to Enslavement and the Slave Trade. 

The strength and resilience of this community come through in the stories shared within Africville Museum, which is a replica of the community church, and throughout the park. You’ll learn about celebrations, baptisms, and everyday community life, while also confronting the devastating story of how isolation, municipal neglect, and the eventual demolition of Africville led to the forced displacement of its residents by Halifax City Council. 

A new tour in Halifax, you can now explore African Nova Scotian history, culture, and key historic sites by bus. Learn about the Jamaican Maroons at the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site, visit Africville Museum, and stop at Viola Desmond’s grave to understand how her stand against racial segregation helped spark Canada’s civil rights movement. You’ll also see New Horizons Baptist Church, founded by abolitionist Richard Preston.  

You can also choose the Preston Township Heritage Tour, which takes you through the historic Black communities of Cherry Brook, North Preston, and East Preston, with a visit to the Black Cultural Centre for Nova Scotia and lunch at the Akoma Centre. 

Visit the Black Cultural Centre for Nova Scotia, the first and largest museum in Canada dedicated to Black history. It showcases stories of bravery, perseverance, spirituality, community, and hope. 

Explore exhibits that highlight the national and international impact of African Nova Scotians, including The No. 2 Construction Battalion and the Struggle to Serve, which tells the story of Black military service in World War I; Banner Hall, which honours 16 African Nova Scotians who made significant contributions; and the journey of William Hall, whose extraordinary strength and service made him the first Black person, first Nova Scotian, and third Canadian to receive the Victoria Cross. 

You can also see the temporary exhibit  A History Exposed – The Enslavement of Black People in Canada, which presents powerful stories and essential context about slavery in Canada. Finally, explore the gallery rooms, which highlight religion, spirituality, cultural artifacts, and more.