Travel back in time
Like the river itself, the history of the Shubenacadie Canal Waterway has many twists and turns. It is a tale of big dreams and dashed hopes. From its geologic origins to its settlement by the Mi’kmaq and its complete transformation by 19th-century industry, the story of the Shubenacadie Canal Waterway is intrinsically linked with the development of modern Nova Scotia.
By browsing the links below, you can learn more about the past, present, and future of the Shubenacadie Canal Waterway, from 515 million years ago to the present. We hope that this will inspire you to experience the canal’s history firsthand by visiting one of the many historic sites along the waterway.
The Shubenacadie Waterway has long been a vital route—from Mi’kmaq trade to the Industrial Age. In partnership with Discover Halifax and the Nova Scotia Indigenous Tourism Enterprise Network, this project shares its rich history and lasting significance through the voices of historians and storytellers. It’s a celebration of a living legacy that links past, present, and future.
