Halifax Public Libraries

Since 1819, Province House has been the home of the Nova Scotia Legislature. This fine example of Georgian Palladian architecture was a landmark attraction for tourists in Halifax. Many of the Fathers of Confederation worked within these stately walls: Adams George Archibald (1814-1892) was elected to the Nova Scotia Legislature in 1851, and in 1858, Robert Barry Dickey (1811-1903) was appointed to the Legislative Council of Nova Scotia, where he served until 1867. A strong opponent to Confederation, William Annand became the Premier of Nova Scotia with his Anti-Confederation party in 1867 . Debates about Confederation and the earlier concept of Maritime Union introduced by Premier Charles Tupper in 1864, were often debated within the walls of Province House. Despite feelings of reservation held by many Nova Scotians, the Legislature passed a resolution to support Confederation in April 1866.

Date: 1913

Reference: Halifax Public Libraries Postcard Collection Halifax Central Library HPL-PC-0062

For more information, please contact the Local History Room at the Halifax Central Library.