HRM Monument #27: Boer War Soldier

The Boer War in South Africa (from 1888 - 1902) marked the first time in Canada's history that it sent companies of volunteer troops to fight in a foreign war. From what I have read, it appears as though Canada sent two contingents to fight in South Africa - the first consisting of Nova Scotia's own H Company and numerous men from the 63rd Halifax Rifles and the Princess Louise Fusiliers. Later, the people of Halifax bid farewell with a huge reception at the Armouries for 1 32o more field artillery and cavalry men.

In honour of those brave volunteers who helped stabilize that region of the world, along with playing a significant role in announcing Canada's newly formed nationhood, the citizens of Halifax erected this monument next to Province House (Nova Scotia's parliament building) on October 19, 1901. The stone at the base of the monument was actually dedicated and laid by the Duke of Cornwallis and York during his Royal Visit to Halifax.

Nova Scotia National Historic Site #9: York Redoubt

York Redoubt was first fortified in 1793, when war broke out between Britain and France. General James Ogilvie, the British commander at Halifax during this time, built a two-gun battery along the south shore of the Northwest Arm, near the entrance, to help defend the harbour.

The defences were later improved by Prince Edward, the fourth son of King George III, when he was commander at Halifax from 1794 to 1800. By 1800 the site had an eight-gun battery and a round Martello Tower, with a signal mast to provide early warning of an enemy attack. Edward named the site York Redoubt in honour of the Duke of York, his brother.