Rising From The Ashes

OVERVIEW

Gain an understanding of how Halifax recovered and rebuilt following a devastating explosion in 1917 that leveled more than a square mile of the city. Two ships colliding in the harbor – one carrying munitions for World War I – caused the blast and resulting tsunami that killed more than 2,000 people. After pausing at a memorial bell tower dedicated to those who lost their lives in the tragedy, you will visit the Hydrostone Market, a collection of shops that was built on ground zero for the explosion. It is a fine example of early 20th-century urban planning, much like the Halifax Public Gardens reflects Victorian Age horticultural principles. As you will see, city hall boasts a Victorian architectural design and survived the explosion. St. Paul’s Anglican Church wasn’t as fortunate. Its windows were blown out and in the entryway you will see a piece of a window frame that the blast embedded in the wall.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Visit areas of Halifax that were flattened in a 1917 explosion and beautifully reconstructed.
• Hear about the force of the explosion, the world’s largest prior to the atomic bomb.
• Pause at a memorial to victims of the explosion and meander the Halifax Public Gardens.
• See a wooden shard from the explosion that was embedded in a church wall.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.