Halifax Public Libraries

The corner of Prince and Hollis Streets in Halifax was the official home to prominent Halifax newspapers The Novascotian and The Morning Chronicle, both owned by William Annand (1808-1887). The newspaper building was completed in 1863.

The Morning Chronicle published positive editorials about Confederation, but after 1865, William Annand changed his opinion after the publication of the anonymously written Botheration Letters; a series of twelve letters secretly penned by Joseph Howe between January and March of that year. They were emotional letters that argued to readers that a federal union would lead to higher taxes and an increase in the prices of goods.

On July 1, 1867 the Maritime Chronicle published the now-famous obituary for Nova Scotia: “DIED. Last night, at twelve o’clock, the free and enlightened Province of Nova Scotia”

After Confederation, many Nova Scotians felt that they had been pushed into Federation, and this spurred the founding of the Anti-Confederation Party. In the provincial election of 1867, the Anti-Confederate Party was victorious, with William Annand as the new Premier of Nova Scotia.

Date: 1911

Reference: Halifax Public Libraries Postcard Collection Halifax Central Library HPL-PC-0475

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