Halifax Public Libraries

Confederation for many Nova Scotian leaders meant the construction of the Intercolonial Railway. Prior to 1867, The railway system in Nova Scotia was limited to just two short routes: Truro and Windsor. The Halifax train station was located in Richmond, a suburb of Halifax, located over two miles north of the city.

Premier Charles Tupper and politician Adams George Archibald advocated for a railway which would tie the economy and the military defense structure closer together. Opponents were concerned about costs, taxation and competition.

At the Quebec Conference, Premier Charles Tupper was successful in inserting the Intercolonial Railway into the British North America Act. The route and construction of the railway would not be completed for another decade, and the stately Intercolonial Railway Station on North Street in Halifax was finally opened in 1878.

Date: [190-]

Reference: Halifax Public Libraries Postcard Collection Halifax Central Library HPL-PC0029

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