Roots to the Past:
Canadian Naval Centennial

Canadian Naval Centennial The Canadian government approved the Naval Service Act on May, 4 1910. From its humble beginnings to its current humanitarian aid in Haiti, the Royal Canadian Navy has left a permanent mark on the Halifax region and on the lives who both serve and support the Forces. Discover the Canadian Royal Navy’s 100 year history with these resources from Halifax Public Libraries.

Image Gallery

Ships of the Royal Canadian Navy and visiting international warships were popular images on 20^th century postcards. So, too, were images of the Sailors Memorial, Admiralty House, HMC Dockyard and the War Memorial in the Grand Parade. And who could forget that iconic tourist symbol, the 19^th century naval sailor, the Jolly Tar? All became popular reminders of both the British and Canadian Navies’ centuries-long presence in the Halifax region.

Digital Collections

Books of Remembrance
- World War I Book of Remembrance commemorates the 1,360 men and women from Halifax County who gave their lives in the Great War, including two of Canada’s first naval casualties, Midshipmen Arthur Wiltshire Silver and William Archibald Palmer.
- World War II and Korean War Book of Remembrance commemorates the 705 men and women from Halifax County who gave their lives in World War II and the Korean War, including those who died while serving in the Royal Canadian Navy and Canadian Merchant Navy.
Halifax Explosion Links
The Halifax Explosion: Halifax North Memorial Library