Halifax and Its People / 1749-1999

Approximately 3000 people gathered at Knox's Farm prior to marching in procession to the Home for Colored Children, three quarters of a mile distant. Private Arthur Wyse led the march, followed by the Salvation Army Band, then the executive of the African United Baptist Association, members of the local Masonic Lodge, and carriages with dignitaries. The Industrial School's Fife and Drum Band also participated. African Methodist Episcopal Boy Scouts and Girl Guides formed an honour guard as the procession arrived at the stage. The official opening included sacred music, speeches, a concert and refreshments. Charles R. Saunders wrote in Share & Care (1994), "All the speakers underscored the importance of the occasion. However, it was the eloquence of J.A.R. Kinney, then secretary of the Board of Directors, that came closest to capturing the day's true meaning when he called it 'the greatest event in the history of the colored people of Nova Scotia'."

Photographer: attributed to Helen Creighton

Date: 6 June 1921

Reference: Helen Creighton Nova Scotia Archives 1987-178 album 12 no. 26-27  / negative: N-1502