Halifax Public Libraries

The Garrison Military Chapel, located on the corner of Brunswick and Cogswell street, was the scene of military pomp and ceremony every Sunday until 1905. Drawing upon soldiers from the nearby Wellington Barracks, Artillery Park, and the Citadel and wearing their formal red uniforms, the soldiers would parade in tune with a military band in front of a street lined with Victorian-dressed spectators.

Confederation brought many changes to Canada’s military forces. Provincial laws and regulations were replaced by new national standards, such as the Militia Act of 1868 which solidified resources and staff for volunteer training. When British forces officially withdrew in 1905, the Garrison Chapel was purchased and taken over by Trinity Church, but was destroyed by fire in 1928.

Date: 1907

Reference: Halifax Public Libraries Postcard Collection Halifax Central Library HPL-PC-0119

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