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LEGISLATURE
VIRTUALLY EXPLORE THE HISTORY AND BEAUTY OF PROVINCE HOUSE
NOVA SCOTIA
LEGISLATURE
VIRTUALLY EXPLORE THE HISTORY AND BEAUTY OF PROVINCE HOUSE
PROVINCE HOUSE
Province House is the oldest legislative building in Canada. The cornerstone was laid by Sir George Prevost in August 1811, yet the building was not completed for occupancy until late in the year 1818, at a cost of £52,000. The Legislative Assembly first met in the building on February 11, 1819; one of their first acts was to provide themselves with a raise in pay so their salaries would be more in line with the magnificent new building. Over the years, Province House has had many royal visits. Queen Elizabeth II visited the site in August 1994 to unveil a plaque designating Province House a National Historic Site. John Merrick is credited with providing the elevation and Richard Scott for being the supervising architect. It is constructed of local sandstone brought by water from Ramsheg, now Wallace, in Cumberland County. The building is exactly twice as long as it is wide, that is 140' by 70' and it is 50' in height. Province House is generally regarded as one of the finest examples of British classical and Palladian architecture of the 19th century in North America, known as late Georgian style. The style used in the building is similar to that of the famous Scottish architect Robert Adam. Originally, the architecture followed the precedents of Georgian architecture by being perfectly symmetrical, but interior changes were made to rooms that eliminated the symmetry. Doors, window surrounds, and plaster mantels are thought to have been imported from Scotland.
PROVINCE HOUSE
Province House is the oldest legislative building in Canada. The cornerstone was laid by Sir George Prevost in August 1811, yet the building was not completed for occupancy until late in the year 1818, at a cost of £52,000. The Legislative Assembly first met in the building on February 11, 1819; one of their first acts was to provide themselves with a raise in pay so their salaries would be more in line with the magnificent new building. Over the years, Province House has had many royal visits. Queen Elizabeth II visited the site in August 1994 to unveil a plaque designating Province House a National Historic Site. John Merrick is credited with providing the elevation and Richard Scott for being the supervising architect. It is constructed of local sandstone brought by water from Ramsheg, now Wallace, in Cumberland County. The building is exactly twice as long as it is wide, that is 140' by 70' and it is 50' in height. Province House is generally regarded as one of the finest examples of British classical and Palladian architecture of the 19th century in North America, known as late Georgian style. The style used in the building is similar to that of the famous Scottish architect Robert Adam. Originally, the architecture followed the precedents of Georgian architecture by being perfectly symmetrical, but interior changes were made to rooms that eliminated the symmetry. Doors, window surrounds, and plaster mantels are thought to have been imported from Scotland.
DR. MATHIAS HOFFMAN
Dr. Mathias Hoffman, a retired naval surgeon, whose portrait was reputedly painted by the eminent English artist, John Hoppner.
DR. MATHIAS HOFFMAN
Dr. Mathias Hoffman, a retired naval surgeon, whose portrait was reputedly painted by the eminent English artist, John Hoppner.
MALACHI SALTER
Malachi Salter, a member of the first legislature in 1758 and merchant. Like many of the early members, he was from Boston. It is said that the artist painted the heads of these two portraits on pre-painted bodies.
MALACHI SALTER
Malachi Salter, a member of the first legislature in 1758 and merchant. Like many of the early members, he was from Boston. It is said that the artist painted the heads of these two portraits on pre-painted bodies.
QUEEN ELIZABETH AND
PRINCE PHILIP
QUEEN ELIZABETH AND
PRINCE PHILIP
EDWARD
Edward, the Duke of Kent, the father of Queen Victoria, who as commander of the British forces in North America, lived in Halifax from 1794 to 1800.
EDWARD
Edward, the Duke of Kent, the father of Queen Victoria, who as commander of the British forces in North America, lived in Halifax from 1794 to 1800.
MISS SHIRLEY ELLIOT
Miss Shirley Elliot, whose photograph is a testament to the years of service she gave as Legislative Librarian from 1954 to 1982.
MISS SHIRLEY ELLIOT
Miss Shirley Elliot, whose photograph is a testament to the years of service she gave as Legislative Librarian from 1954 to 1982.
SUSANNAH
Susannah, wife of Malachi Salter.
SUSANNAH SALTER
Susannah, wife of Malachi Salter.
QUEEN CHARLOTTE
Consort of King George III - Charlottetown is named after her.
Credit: Communications Nova Scotia, 2007
QUEEN CHARLOTTE
Consort of King George III - Charlottetown is named after her.
Credit: Communications Nova Scotia, 2007
QUEEN CAROLINE
Consort of King George II. Her portait hangs to the right of her father-in-law, King George I, with whom she had a troubled relationship. This portrait is by Enoch Seaman and was painted around 1730.
QUEEN CAROLINE
Consort of King George II. Her portait hangs to the right of her father-in-law, King George I, with whom she had a troubled relationship. This portrait is by Enoch Seaman and was painted around 1730.
COUNCIL TABLE
The large oak table in front of the dais is of great significance in that it is the only tangible link with the founding of Halifax in June 1749. It is from Col. Edward Cornwallis' ship, the Beaufort, and served the First Council, which met aboard ship in the initial months of the town's settlement. Later, when it was moved to land it was very likely housed in the Governor's Residence, which originally occupied the site of Province House. The names of the members of the first council are engraved on the brass plaque, which the Royal Nova Scotia Historical Society had inserted on the table in 1959.
COUNCIL TABLE
The large oak table in front of the dais is of great significance in that it is the only tangible link with the founding of Halifax in June 1749. It is from Col. Edward Cornwallis' ship, the Beaufort, and served the First Council, which met aboard ship in the initial months of the town's settlement. Later, when it was moved to land it was very likely housed in the Governor's Residence, which originally occupied the site of Province House. The names of the members of the first council are engraved on the brass plaque, which the Royal Nova Scotia Historical Society had inserted on the table in 1959.
KING GEORGE I
The Earl of Dalhousie presented the portraits of George I and Queen Caroline, consort of George II, when he departed from Halifax in May 1820, to take up the office of Governor General of the Canadas. The four portraits: King George I, Queen Caroline, King George III, and Queen Charlotte are supposed to have come from his castle in Scotland. However, an error in identification was made prior to their shipment to Nova Scotia, whereby George I was erroneously labelled George II. This error was noticed in 1963 and confirmed by the National Portrait Gallery in London through the work of Legislative Librarian, Shirley Elliott. The discovery caused considerable interest and was commemorated in a cartoon by Bob Chamber in the Halifax Chronicle-Herald. The portrait has been attributed to Sir Godfrey Kneller.
KING GEORGE I
The Earl of Dalhousie presented the portraits of George I and Queen Caroline, consort of George II, when he departed from Halifax in May 1820, to take up the office of Governor General of the Canadas. The four portraits: King George I, Queen Caroline, King George III, and Queen Charlotte are supposed to have come from his castle in Scotland. However, an error in identification was made prior to their shipment to Nova Scotia, whereby George I was erroneously labelled George II. This error was noticed in 1963 and confirmed by the National Portrait Gallery in London through the work of Legislative Librarian, Shirley Elliott. The discovery caused considerable interest and was commemorated in a cartoon by Bob Chamber in the Halifax Chronicle-Herald. The portrait has been attributed to Sir Godfrey Kneller.
SIR FENWICK WILLIAMS
Portrait of Sir Fenwick Williams of Kars by William Gush. Williams was a General in the British Army during the Crimean War. He is also noted as being the first native born Nova Scotian to be appointed Lieutenant Governor of the province, a position he held during the time of Confederation in 1867.
Credit: Communications Nova Scotia, 2007
SIR FENWICK WILLIAMS
Portrait of Sir Fenwick Williams of Kars by William Gush. Williams was a General in the British Army during the Crimean War. He is also noted as being the first native born Nova Scotian to be appointed Lieutenant Governor of the province, a position he held during the time of Confederation in 1867.
Credit: Communications Nova Scotia, 2007
KING WILLIAM IV
Portrait of King William IV by Sir William Beechey. This portrait was painted in England and was a personal gift to the province by the sovereign in 1833. The gift was a token of his appreciation to the people of Nova Scotia for their hospitality while His Majesty was serving in Halifax in the Royal Navy.
KING WILLIAM IV
Portrait of King William IV by Sir William Beechey. This portrait was painted in England and was a personal gift to the province by the sovereign in 1833. The gift was a token of his appreciation to the people of Nova Scotia for their hospitality while His Majesty was serving in Halifax in the Royal Navy.
DELMORE W (BUDDY) DAYE SERGEANT AT ARMS
Delmore W (Buddy) Daye Sergeant-at-Arms Nova Scotia House of Assembly January 1990- August 1995, first black Sergeant-at-Arms in Canada.
DELMORE W (BUDDY) DAYE
SERGEANT AT ARMS
Delmore W (Buddy) Daye Sergeant-at-Arms Nova Scotia House of Assembly January 1990- August 1995, first black Sergeant-at-Arms in Canada.
COMPOSITE WORK
Composite work by Harry J. Moss of the last Legislative Council, which was abolished on May 31, 1928.
Credit: Communications Nova Scotia, 2008
COMPOSITE WORK
Composite work by Harry J. Moss of the last Legislative Council, which was abolished on May 31, 1928.
Credit: Communications Nova Scotia, 2008
RED CHAMBER
This is the only room in Province House where no significant changes have been made since the building's opening in 1819. From that year until 1928, the Red Chamber served as the seat of the appointed Legislative Council, which was an Upper House or Senate for the Province of Nova Scotia. On May 31, 1928, Nova Scotia abolished its Legislative Council. Until that time, the Lieutenant Governor used to deliver the Speech from the Throne at the opening of the Legislature in this chamber in the presence of the Legislative Council and the House of Assembly. After the Legislatie Council was abolished in 1928, the Speech from the Throne was moved to the Legislative Chamber. Upper House chambers in Westminster Parliaments have red floors; therefore, red is the featured colour in this room. The details in the classical Adam-style plaster and ornamental stucco (brought over from Scotland) are one of the most striking features in the Red Chamber. Numerous glittering balls have been hosted in the Red Chamber, including events to honour and welcome to Nova Scotia members of the British Monarchy. The beautiful room is now used for receptions and other meetings.
RED CHAMBER
This is the only room in Province House where no significant changes have been made since the building's opening in 1819. From that year until 1928, the Red Chamber served as the seat of the appointed Legislative Council, which was an Upper House or Senate for the Province of Nova Scotia. On May 31, 1928, Nova Scotia abolished its Legislative Council. Until that time, the Lieutenant Governor used to deliver the Speech from the Throne at the opening of the Legislature in this chamber in the presence of the Legislative Council and the House of Assembly. After the Legislatie Council was abolished in 1928, the Speech from the Throne was moved to the Legislative Chamber. Upper House chambers in Westminster Parliaments have red floors; therefore, red is the featured colour in this room. The details in the classical Adam-style plaster and ornamental stucco (brought over from Scotland) are one of the most striking features in the Red Chamber. Numerous glittering balls have been hosted in the Red Chamber, including events to honour and welcome to Nova Scotia members of the British Monarchy. The beautiful room is now used for receptions and other meetings.
HER MAJESTY
QUEEN ELIZABETH II
Photograph on canvas of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II by Margaret Lindsay Williams (1953). This photograph was the official portrait distributed to public offices and different Crown agencies. They were distributed by the Department of the Secretary of State in 1954.
Credit: Communications Nova Scotia, 2007
HER MAJESTY
QUEEN ELIZABETH II
Photograph on canvas of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II by Margaret Lindsay Williams (1953). This photograph was the official portrait distributed to public offices and different Crown agencies. They were distributed by the Department of the Secretary of State in 1954.
Credit: Communications Nova Scotia, 2007
THRONE CHAIRS
The chair on the right side of the dais, bearing St. Edward's Crown, was commissioned for the July 1860 royal visit of Edward, Prince of Wales, later Edward Vll. This chair stood by itself until 1939 when it was necessary to build another throne chair for George Vl and Queen Elizabeth's visit. A local cabinet maker, Herman MacMillan, achieved the remarkable feat of carving a duplicate chair in 28 days. The only distinguishing feature of the new chair is the Imperial Crown, which Queen Victoria adopted early in her reign. Mr. MacMillan remarked that it was a simpler task to make a reproduction than to restore the original chair to proper condition. Mr. Thomas Gibson restored the Throne Chairs in 2018.
THRONE CHAIRS
The chair on the right side of the dais, bearing St. Edward's Crown, was commissioned for the July 1860 royal visit of Edward, Prince of Wales, later Edward Vll. This chair stood by itself until 1939 when it was necessary to build another throne chair for George Vl and Queen Elizabeth's visit. A local cabinet maker, Herman MacMillan, achieved the remarkable feat of carving a duplicate chair in 28 days. The only distinguishing feature of the new chair is the Imperial Crown, which Queen Victoria adopted early in her reign. Mr. MacMillan remarked that it was a simpler task to make a reproduction than to restore the original chair to proper condition. Mr. Thomas Gibson restored the Throne Chairs in 2018.
SIR CHARLES
HASTINGS DOYLE
Sir Charles Hastings Doyle, Lieutenant Governor of Nova Scotia from 1867-1873; portrait by A. R. Venables.
SIR CHARLES
HASTINGS DOYLE
Sir Charles Hastings Doyle, Lieutenant Governor of Nova Scotia from 1867-1873; portrait by A. R. Venables.
KING GEORGE III
From the studio of Allan Ramsay, a noted 18th century portrait painter. King George is supposed to have been partial to this particular portrait of himself and had it repeated many times for presentation to his friends. King George lll was the monarch when the building was opened in 1819, thus the reason behind the prominent display of his portrait.
Credit: Communications Nova Scotia, 2007
KING GEORGE III
From the studio of Allan Ramsay, a noted 18th century portrait painter. King George is supposed to have been partial to this particular portrait of himself and had it repeated many times for presentation to his friends. King George lll was the monarch when the building was opened in 1819, thus the reason behind the prominent display of his portrait.
Credit: Communications Nova Scotia, 2007
LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL CHAIRS
There are 22 Legislative Council chairs, four are in the Red Chamber, the remainder are scattered throughout Province House. The chairs were made in the mid-nineteenth century by George MacLeod of Pictou County. The President's Chair is distinguished from the others by a different crown on the back.
Credit: Communications Nova Scotia, 2007
LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL CHAIRS
There are 22 Legislative Council chairs, four are in the Red Chamber, the remainder are scattered throughout Province House. The chairs were made in the mid-nineteenth century by George MacLeod of Pictou County. The President's Chair is distinguished from the others by a different crown on the back.
Credit: Communications Nova Scotia, 2007
KING GEORGE VI
King George VI portrait by Margaret Fulton Frame.
KING GEORGE VI
King George VI portrait by Margaret Fulton Frame.
COMPOSITE WORK
William Notman Studio composite of the installation in1878 of the Marquis of Lorne as Governor General. Each attendee was invited to be individually photographed at the studio. Staff then pasted each photo onto a watercolour background of the Legislative Chamber in an extraordinary and successful attempt to re-create the actual event, an innovation for which the studio received considerable recognition.
COMPOSITE WORK
William Notman Studio composite of the installation in1878 of the Marquis of Lorne as Governor General. Each attendee was invited to be individually photographed at the studio. Staff then pasted each photo onto a watercolour background of the Legislative Chamber in an extraordinary and successful attempt to re-create the actual event, an innovation for which the studio received considerable recognition.
SIR JOHN INGLIS
Portrait of Sir John Inglis by William Gush. Inglis was a General in the British Army in the 19th century during the Battle of Lucknow; he was a native of Halifax. Inglis was the son of John Inglis and grand-son of Thomas Cochran, who were both Members of the Legislative Council.
Credit: Communications Nova Scotia, 2007
SIR JOHN INGLIS
Portrait of Sir John Inglis by William Gush. Inglis was a General in the British Army in the 19th century during the Battle of Lucknow; he was a native of Halifax. Inglis was the son of John Inglis and grand-son of Thomas Cochran, who were both Members of the Legislative Council.
Credit: Communications Nova Scotia, 2007
JUDGE THOMAS
CHANDLER HALIBURTON
The creator of Sam Slick and author of Historical and Statistical Account of Nova Scotia, which was the first comprehensive written history of Nova Scotia. This portrait was painted in 1853 by English portrait artist William Beetham.
Credit: Communications Nova Scotia, 2007
JUDGE THOMAS
CHANDLER HALIBURTON
The creator of Sam Slick and author of Historical and Statistical Account of Nova Scotia, which was the first comprehensive written history of Nova Scotia. This portrait was painted in 1853 by English portrait artist William Beetham.
Credit: Communications Nova Scotia, 2007
LEGISTLATIVE LIBRARY
In 1860 the Supreme Court vacated this room in the building in favour of their own premises on Spring Garden Road. In 1862 this room opened as the Legislative Library with many changes made to the interior. The three sided balcony, the two hanging staircases, and the eight alcoves were all installed, an interesting feature of the latter being the wrought iron work, in which the provincial floral emblem, the Mayflower, is represented. The style of architecture characterized in the room is mid-Victorian. Several famous trials took place in this room when it was a courtroom. In 1819 Richard John Uniacke Jr. was tried for killing William Bowie in a duel and was eventually acquitted; his father, Richard Uniacke Sr. was Attorney General and responsible for prosecution of the case. In 1844 the Saladin pirates were brought to trial and condemned to death by hanging on the South Common. Most significantly, in March 1835, Joseph Howe was put on trial for criminal libel and forced to defend himself. A plaque to the right as one enters the room commemorates Howe's triumphant acquittal, generally regarded as the first step in the establishment of freedom of the press in Canada. The original plan of Province House designated this chamber the Supreme Court of the Province of Nova Scotia. The judge's bench stood where the librarian's desk is today and the adjoining office was the judge's robing room. There was a spectators' gallery at the north end of the room, which was open to the general public. The library is primarily responsible for providing service to the Legislature and the various departments of the government. Although the general public may use the Library for reference and research they do not have borrowing privileges. There are 64,000 titles in the collection, as well as several thousand reels of microfilm and microfiche.
LEGISTLATIVE LIBRARY
In 1860 the Supreme Court vacated this room in the building in favour of their own premises on Spring Garden Road. In 1862 this room opened as the Legislative Library with many changes made to the interior. The three sided balcony, the two hanging staircases, and the eight alcoves were all installed, an interesting feature of the latter being the wrought iron work, in which the provincial floral emblem, the Mayflower, is represented. The style of architecture characterized in the room is mid-Victorian. Several famous trials took place in this room when it was a courtroom. In 1819 Richard John Uniacke Jr. was tried for killing William Bowie in a duel and was eventually acquitted; his father, Richard Uniacke Sr. was Attorney General and responsible for prosecution of the case. In 1844 the Saladin pirates were brought to trial and condemned to death by hanging on the South Common. Most significantly, in March 1835, Joseph Howe was put on trial for criminal libel and forced to defend himself. A plaque to the right as one enters the room commemorates Howe's triumphant acquittal, generally regarded as the first step in the establishment of freedom of the press in Canada. The original plan of Province House designated this chamber the Supreme Court of the Province of Nova Scotia. The judge's bench stood where the librarian's desk is today and the adjoining office was the judge's robing room. There was a spectators' gallery at the north end of the room, which was open to the general public. The library is primarily responsible for providing service to the Legislature and the various departments of the government. Although the general public may use the Library for reference and research they do not have borrowing privileges. There are 64,000 titles in the collection, as well as several thousand reels of microfilm and microfiche.
HANKERCHIEF
This handkerchief was donated to Province House by a descendent of one of Queen Victoria's staff. The royal monogram "VR" with letters formed of flower motifs is in the bottom left hand corner and is surmounted by King Edward's Crown. Queen Victoria often gave personal belongings to her staff.
HANKERCHIEF
This handkerchief was donated to Province House by a descendent of one of Queen Victoria's staff. The royal monogram "VR" with letters formed of flower motifs is in the bottom left hand corner and is surmounted by King Edward's Crown. Queen Victoria often gave personal belongings to her staff.
KING GEORGE V
Portrait of King George V by Canadian painter, Sir Wyly Grier, 1938. This portrait was unveiled by King George VI on his visit to Halifax in 1939.
KING GEORGE V
Portrait of King George V by Canadian painter, Sir Wyly Grier, 1938. This portrait was unveiled by King George VI on his visit to Halifax in 1939.
KING EDWARD VII
Portrait of King Edward VII by R. J. Wickendon. King Edward, as the Prince of Wales, visited Province House in 1860.
KING EDWARD VII
Portrait of King Edward VII by R. J. Wickendon. King Edward, as the Prince of Wales, visited Province House in 1860.
QUEEN VICTORIA
Queen Victoria- Queen Victoria's portrait was executed by a Halifax artist, Alfred Barrett, and is very likely a copy of one of the steel engravings of the Queen, which were popular in the late 19th century.
QUEEN VICTORIA
Queen Victoria- Queen Victoria's portrait was executed by a Halifax artist, Alfred Barrett, and is very likely a copy of one of the steel engravings of the Queen, which were popular in the late 19th century.
SIR ROBERT LAIRD BORDEN
The Right Honourable Sir Robert Laird Borden, Prime Minister of Canada (1911-1920) by Walter H. Cox. Borden was one of three Prime Ministers born in Nova Scotia. He was Prime Minister during World War I.
SIR ROBERT LAIRD BORDEN
The Right Honourable Sir Robert Laird Borden, Prime Minister of Canada (1911-1920) by Walter H. Cox. Borden was one of three Prime Ministers born in Nova Scotia. He was Prime Minister during World War I.
SPEAKER OF THE NOVA SCOTIA LEGISLATURE HON. KEVIN S. MURPHY
The Honourable Kevin S. Murphy was first elected to the Nova Scotia House of Assembly as MLA for Eastern Shore on October 8, 2013 and was re-elected in 2017. Shortly thereafter on October 28, 2013 Kevin was elected the Speaker of the Nova Scotia House of Assembly.
Kevin is the first Speaker of the House to hail from the riding of the Eastern Shore, and embraces the responsibilities this role requires of him. He is the first Speaker in any Canadian jurisdiction to have a permanent long term physical disability. Kevin is a spinal cord injured quadriplegic as a result of a hockey accident in 1985.
He attended Saint Mary's University where he obtained his Bachelor of Commerce in 1992 and has remained in the community of the Eastern Shore operating several successful small businesses over the past 3 decades. Kevin has also worked for 5 years for the Canadian Paraplegic Association in Nova Scotia as a Peer Counsellor, and 7 years for the Rick Hansen Foundation as a the National Solutions Coordinator.
He is Chair of the Assembly Matters Committee He is also a member of the House of Assembly Management Commission.
SPEAKER OF THE NOVA SCOTIA LEGISLATURE HON. KEVIN S. MURPHY
The Honourable Kevin S. Murphy was first elected to the Nova Scotia House of Assembly as MLA for Eastern Shore on October 8, 2013 and was re-elected in 2017. Shortly thereafter on October 28, 2013 Kevin was elected the Speaker of the Nova Scotia House of Assembly.
Kevin is the first Speaker of the House to hail from the riding of the Eastern Shore, and embraces the responsibilities this role requires of him. He is the first Speaker in any Canadian jurisdiction to have a permanent long term physical disability. Kevin is a spinal cord injured quadriplegic as a result of a hockey accident in 1985.
He attended Saint Mary's University where he obtained his Bachelor of Commerce in 1992 and has remained in the community of the Eastern Shore operating several successful small businesses over the past 3 decades. Kevin has also worked for 5 years for the Canadian Paraplegic Association in Nova Scotia as a Peer Counsellor, and 7 years for the Rick Hansen Foundation as a the National Solutions Coordinator.
He is Chair of the Assembly Matters Committee He is also a member of the House of Assembly Management Commission.
HON. GEORGE HENRY MURRAY
Hon. George Henry Murray, Premier of Nova Scotia (1896-1923), by Wyly Grier. At 26 years and 188 days (9683 days in total), Murray is the longest serving premier in the British Commonwealth, just beating South Australia's Sir Thomas Playford IV at 26 years and 125 days.
HON. GEORGE HENRY MURRAY
Hon. George Henry Murray, Premier of Nova Scotia (1896-1923), by Wyly Grier. At 26 years and 188 days (9683 days in total), Murray is the longest serving premier in the British Commonwealth, just beating South Australia's Sir Thomas Playford IV at 26 years and 125 days.
THRONE CHAIRS
The chair on the right side of the dais, bearing St. Edward's Crown, was commissioned for the July 1860 royal visit of Edward, Prince of Wales, later Edward Vll. This chair stood by itself until 1939 when it was necessary to build another throne chair for George Vl and Queen Elizabeth's visit. A local cabinet maker, Herman MacMillan, achieved the remarkable feat of carving a duplicate chair in 28 days. The only distinguishing feature of the new chair is the Imperial Crown, which Queen Victoria adopted early in her reign. Mr. MacMillan remarked that it was a simpler task to make a reproduction than to restore the original chair to proper condition. Mr. Thomas Gibson restored the Throne Chairs in 2018.
THRONE CHAIRS
The chair on the right side of the dais, bearing St. Edward's Crown, was commissioned for the July 1860 royal visit of Edward, Prince of Wales, later Edward Vll. This chair stood by itself until 1939 when it was necessary to build another throne chair for George Vl and Queen Elizabeth's visit. A local cabinet maker, Herman MacMillan, achieved the remarkable feat of carving a duplicate chair in 28 days. The only distinguishing feature of the new chair is the Imperial Crown, which Queen Victoria adopted early in her reign. Mr. MacMillan remarked that it was a simpler task to make a reproduction than to restore the original chair to proper condition. Mr. Thomas Gibson restored the Throne Chairs in 2018.
WILLIAM HALL
William Hall, VC (1859) - Hero of Lucknow (1857). First Nova Scotian, first black person, and one of the first Canadians to receive the Vicoria Cross.
WILLIAM HALL
William Hall, VC (1859) - Hero of Lucknow (1857). First Nova Scotian, first black person, and one of the first Canadians to receive the Vicoria Cross.
JOSEPH HOWE
On December 13, 1904, the Joseph Howe memorial statue was unveiled on the 100th anniversary of his birth. It was sculpted by Louis-Philippe Hébert and cast in bronze by Durenne & Co. of Paris. The cost of the statue was supposed to be covered by public subscription, but the public only contributed $2,022.44. The total cost of the statue was $10,500.
JOSEPH HOWE
On December 13, 1904, the Joseph Howe memorial statue was unveiled on the 100th anniversary of his birth. It was sculpted by Louis-Philippe Hébert and cast in bronze by Durenne & Co. of Paris. The cost of the statue was supposed to be covered by public subscription, but the public only contributed $2,022.44. The total cost of the statue was $10,500.
Plaque commemorating Canada's first newspaper, the Halifax Gazette, which was first published on March 23, 1752.
Plaque commemorating Canada's first newspaper, the Halifax Gazette, which was first published on March 23, 1752.
DONALD MARSHALL SR.
Donald Marshall Sr., Grand Chief of the Mi'kmaq Nation from 1964-1991.
DONALD MARSHALL SR.
Donald Marshall Sr., Grand Chief of the Mi'kmaq Nation from 1964-1991.
GRAND CHIEF GABRIEL SYLLIBOY PARDON
On February 16, 2017, Grand Chief Gabriel Sylliboy was granted a posthumous free pardon for his arrest and conviction in 1927 for hunting muskrat and possessing pelts out of season. Lt. Gov. J.J. Grant, who granted the free pardon stated: "This pardon addresses a conviction against the late grand chief in the pursuit of his aboriginal and treaty rights, and it helps us acknowledge and learn from the struggles of the past and memorialize those who sought to exercise their rights."
GRAND CHIEF GABRIEL SYLLIBOY PARDON
On February 16, 2017, Grand Chief Gabriel Sylliboy was granted a posthumous free pardon for his arrest and conviction in 1927 for hunting muskrat and possessing pelts out of season. Lt. Gov. J.J. Grant, who granted the free pardon stated: "This pardon addresses a conviction against the late grand chief in the pursuit of his aboriginal and treaty rights, and it helps us acknowledge and learn from the struggles of the past and memorialize those who sought to exercise their rights."
VIOLA DESMOND PARDON
On April 15, 2020, Viola Desmond was posthumously granted an official apology and free pardon for her wrongful incarceration and fine in 1946 for sitting in the white peoples' section of a New Glasgow movie theatre. Lt. Gov. Mayann Francis, who granted the free pardon stated: "This closes an erroneous chapter in the history of this province and allows a new one to begin. I am confident that the case of Mrs. Viola Desmond will be the focus of scholarly and human rights research for years to come. It is a historic moment for Nova Scotia and for Canada, and I am proud to be a part of it.” This occasion marked the first time that a free pardon was ever posthumously granted in Canada.
VIOLA DESMOND PARDON
On April 15, 2020, Viola Desmond was posthumously granted an official apology and free pardon for her wrongful incarceration and fine in 1946 for sitting in the white peoples' section of a New Glasgow movie theatre. Lt. Gov. Mayann Francis, who granted the free pardon stated: "This closes an erroneous chapter in the history of this province and allows a new one to begin. I am confident that the case of Mrs. Viola Desmond will be the focus of scholarly and human rights research for years to come. It is a historic moment for Nova Scotia and for Canada, and I am proud to be a part of it.” This occasion marked the first time that a free pardon was ever posthumously granted in Canada.
SIR JOHN S.D THOMPSON
Sir John S.D. Thompson, Premier of Nova Scotia in 1882 and Prime Minister of Canada, 1892-1894. This portrait is the work of Tom Forrestall; it was unveiled in May 1988. Thompson was an editor of Hansard. He died in Windsor Castle while having supper with the Queen.
SIR JOHN S.D THOMPSON
Sir John S.D. Thompson, Premier of Nova Scotia in 1882 and Prime Minister of Canada, 1892-1894. This portrait is the work of Tom Forrestall; it was unveiled in May 1988. Thompson was an editor of Hansard. He died in Windsor Castle while having supper with the Queen.
SPEAKERS CHAIR
The Speaker is a Member of the Legislative Assembly chosen by his or her peers to preside over legislative proceedings. He or she is the presiding officer of the House of Assembly. In the chamber, it is the Speaker’s job to maintain order and decorum, regulate debate, decide on questions of order, and rule on questions of privilege in accordance with the rules and practices of the House of Assembly. The Speaker ensures that all viewpoints are heard. The Speaker does not take part in the debates of the House of Assembly. If a vote in the House of Assembly results in a tie, the Speaker casts the deciding vote. The Speaker may take part in proceedings of the Committee of the Whole House. As the guardian of the privileges of the House of Assembly, the Speaker protects the rights of its members. Privilege is essential to the functioning of the Assembly, as it protects the Assembly from interference by the executive and judicial branches of government. To fulfill their legislative functions, the Assembly must remain independent. The Speaker represents the House of Assembly and has jurisdiction over all matters concerning Province House.
SPEAKERS CHAIR
The Speaker is a Member of the Legislative Assembly chosen by his or her peers to preside over legislative proceedings. He or she is the presiding officer of the House of Assembly. In the chamber, it is the Speaker’s job to maintain order and decorum, regulate debate, decide on questions of order, and rule on questions of privilege in accordance with the rules and practices of the House of Assembly. The Speaker ensures that all viewpoints are heard. The Speaker does not take part in the debates of the House of Assembly. If a vote in the House of Assembly results in a tie, the Speaker casts the deciding vote. The Speaker may take part in proceedings of the Committee of the Whole House. As the guardian of the privileges of the House of Assembly, the Speaker protects the rights of its members. Privilege is essential to the functioning of the Assembly, as it protects the Assembly from interference by the executive and judicial branches of government. To fulfill their legislative functions, the Assembly must remain independent. The Speaker represents the House of Assembly and has jurisdiction over all matters concerning Province House.
THE MACE
The mace is the ancient symbol of royal authority, delegated in Nova Scotia to the House of Assembly. Originally a battle weapon, carried by the royal bodyguard when medieval English kings conducted their own assemblies, the mace became emblematic of the transfer of power to the English Parliament. As the Speaker became responsible to the House rather than the King, the power of the Crown was represented in the ceremonial mace. When the Nova Scotia Assembly is in session, the mace is the Speaker's authority to conduct the business of the House, and is always in the care of the Sergeant-at-Arms. When the House is in session, the mace is laid in the cradle on the top of the Clerk's table, but if the House is in committee, it is placed in the lower cradle on the legs of the table. The mace is sterling silver and gilded in gold; it was donated to the House on March 5, 1930, by Chief Justice Harris and his wife.
THE MACE
The mace is the ancient symbol of royal authority, delegated in Nova Scotia to the House of Assembly. Originally a battle weapon, carried by the royal bodyguard when medieval English kings conducted their own assemblies, the mace became emblematic of the transfer of power to the English Parliament. As the Speaker became responsible to the House rather than the King, the power of the Crown was represented in the ceremonial mace. When the Nova Scotia Assembly is in session, the mace is the Speaker's authority to conduct the business of the House, and is always in the care of the Sergeant-at-Arms. When the House is in session, the mace is laid in the cradle on the top of the Clerk's table, but if the House is in committee, it is placed in the lower cradle on the legs of the table. The mace is sterling silver and gilded in gold; it was donated to the House on March 5, 1930, by Chief Justice Harris and his wife.
NS HOUSE RULES
Rules of the Nova Scotia House of Assembly dated 1784 and signed by Richard Cunningham, Chief Clerk at the House from 1783 to 1785.
HOUSE RULES
Rules of the Nova Scotia House of Assembly dated 1784 and signed by Richard Cunningham, Chief Clerk at the House from 1783 to 1785.
GLADYS MURIEL PORTER
Gladys M. Porter was the first woman elected to the Nova Scotia Legislature, serving Kings North from 1960 to 1967.
GLADYS MURIEL PORTER
Gladys M. Porter was the first woman elected to the Nova Scotia Legislature, serving Kings North from 1960 to 1967.
CLERKS TABLE
Pictures indicate this table was installed around 1930, which makes sense because the House needed a cradle to hold the new mace.
CLERKS TABLE
Pictures indicate this table was installed around 1930, which makes sense because the House needed a cradle to hold the new mace.
WILLIAM STEVENS FIELDING
Portrait of William Stevens Fielding, Premier of Nova Scotia, 1884-1896, by Wyly Grier.
WILLIAM STEVENS FIELDING
Portrait of William Stevens Fielding, Premier of Nova Scotia, 1884-1896, by Wyly Grier.
DARRELL DEXTER
In December of 2018, the Speaker and the Premier unveiled a portrait of Darrell Dexter, who is the first premier to be elected from the New Democratic Party.
DARRELL DEXTER
In December of 2018, the Speaker and the Premier unveiled a portrait of Darrell Dexter, who is the first premier to be elected from the New Democratic Party.
JOSEPH HOWE
Portrait of Joseph Howe, Speaker of the House (1841-1843), Premier of Nova Scotia (1860-1863), and Lieutenant Governor of Nova Scotia (1873), by Henry Sandham in 1875. The portrait was painted from a William Notman photograph. Howe championed responsible government and freedom of the press.
Credit: Communications Nova Scotia, 2007
JOSEPH HOWE
Portrait of Joseph Howe, Speaker of the House (1841-1843), Premier of Nova Scotia (1860-1863), and Lieutenant Governor of Nova Scotia (1873), by Henry Sandham in 1875. The portrait was painted from a William Notman photograph. Howe championed responsible government and freedom of the press.
Credit: Communications Nova Scotia, 2007
SIR CHARLES TUPPER
Portrait of Rt. Hon. Sir Charles Tupper by John H. Gardiner. Tupper was Premier of Nova Scotia (1864-1867) and Prime Minister of Canada (1896). This portrait was loaned to the Province in 1941 by Henry Borden. On December 23, 1964, it was given to the Province.
Credit: Communications Nova Scotia, 2007
SIR CHARLES TUPPER
Portrait of Rt. Hon. Sir Charles Tupper by John H. Gardiner. Tupper was Premier of Nova Scotia (1864-1867) and Prime Minister of Canada (1896). This portrait was loaned to the Province in 1941 by Henry Borden. On December 23, 1964, it was given to the Province.
Credit: Communications Nova Scotia, 2007
JAMES WILLIAM JOHNSTON
Portrait of Hon. James William Johnston, Premier of Nova Scotia (1857-1860) by Henry Sandham. The portrait was painted from a William Notman photograph. In January 1848, Johnston's government was challenged because the executive council did not "possess the confidence so essential to the promoting of the public welfare, and so necessary to insure to Your Excellency the co-operation of this Assembly." The Lieutenant Governor responded by stating, "no time will be lost by me in adopting such measures as may appear to me expedient." On February 2, 1848, James Boyle Uniacke was called upon to lead the first responsible government in the British Colonies.
JAMES WILLIAM JOHNSTON
Portrait of Hon. James William Johnston, Premier of Nova Scotia (1857-1860) by Henry Sandham. The portrait was painted from a William Notman photograph. In January 1848, Johnston's government was challenged because the executive council did not "possess the confidence so essential to the promoting of the public welfare, and so necessary to insure to Your Excellency the co-operation of this Assembly." The Lieutenant Governor responded by stating, "no time will be lost by me in adopting such measures as may appear to me expedient." On February 2, 1848, James Boyle Uniacke was called upon to lead the first responsible government in the British Colonies.
F. WAYNE ADAMS
Wayne Adams was the first black member to be elected to the Nova Scotia House of Assembly, serving Preston from 1993 to 1998.
PROVINCE HOUSE
Location and Hours
Province House is located at the following street address:
1726 Hollis Street
Halifax, Nova Scotia B3J 2Y3
Canada
Telephone: 902-424-4661
Fax: 902-424-0574
E-mail: info@nslegislature.ca
F. WAYNE ADAMS
Wayne Adams was the first black member to be elected to the Nova Scotia House of Assembly, serving Preston from 1993 to 1998.
Mi'kmaq quill tea cosy from the late 1800s and stone tools and pottery.
Mi'kmaq quill tea cosy from the late 1800s and stone tools and pottery.
NOVA SCOTIA RECEPTION ROOM
The Nova Scotia Room is in the space formerly occupied by the Premier's Office and the Secretary's Office.
NOVA SCOTIA RECEPTION ROOM
The Nova Scotia Room is in the space formerly occupied by the Premier's Office and the Secretary's Office.
LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY
Every year since February 1819, the Nova Scotia Legislature has met in session in the Legislative Chamber. Originally, the layout was very different from the present; the room itself used to be exactly the same size and shape as the Red Chamber. The Speaker's Chair was located on the Granville Street, or west side, and to the left of it were two fireplaces flanking the entrance. When central heating was introduced in the 1880s, there were major structural changes to this end of the building, which included the construction of a semi-circular balcony for the visitors' gallery with various offices underneath it. The Speaker's Chair is now on the north end of the room. As is the custom, the government members sit to the right of the Speaker and the opposition to the left. The Chief Clerk and Assistant Clerk sit on either side of the Clerk's Table, immediately in front of the Speaker. The Sergeant-at-Arms, who is responsible for security, is seated to the Speaker's left at the chamber entrance. Behind this is the Bar of the House, which traditionally was used when members were removed from the chamber by the Sergeant-at-Arms.
LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY
Every year since February 1819, the Nova Scotia Legislature has met in session in the Legislative Chamber. Originally, the layout was very different from the present; the room itself used to be exactly the same size and shape as the Red Chamber. The Speaker's Chair was located on the Granville Street, or west side, and to the left of it were two fireplaces flanking the entrance. When central heating was introduced in the 1880s, there were major structural changes to this end of the building, which included the construction of a semi-circular balcony for the visitors' gallery with various offices underneath it. The Speaker's Chair is now on the north end of the room. As is the custom, the government members sit to the right of the Speaker and the opposition to the left. The Chief Clerk and Assistant Clerk sit on either side of the Clerk's Table, immediately in front of the Speaker. The Sergeant-at-Arms, who is responsible for security, is seated to the Speaker's left at the chamber entrance. Behind this is the Bar of the House, which traditionally was used when members were removed from the chamber by the Sergeant-at-Arms.
SOLDIER'S MEMORIAL
The cornerstone was laid on October 19, 1901, by the Duke of Cornwall and York. This monument was the first in the British Empire to honor fallen soldiers of the South African War. It cost $10,000; most of the money was paid from public subscription; the Province contributed $3500. The monument was modeled by Hamilton McCarthy of Ottawa and the bronze statue was cast in New York. It represents a soldier signalling "enemy in sight." The unveiling took place on June 26, 1902.
SOLDIER'S MEMORIAL
The cornerstone was laid on October 19, 1901, by the Duke of Cornwall and York. This monument was the first in the British Empire to honor fallen soldiers of the South African War. It cost $10,000; most of the money was paid from public subscription; the Province contributed $3500. The monument was modeled by Hamilton McCarthy of Ottawa and the bronze statue was cast in New York. It represents a soldier signalling "enemy in sight." The unveiling took place on June 26, 1902.
VETERANS ROOM
Former Executive Council Office in Province House was dedicated as the Veterans Room in the Year of the Veteran in 1995.
VETERANS ROOM
Former Executive Council Office in Province House was dedicated as the Veterans Room in the Year of the Veteran in 1995.
Above the frames around some of the windows in the private offices on the second floor of Province House are headless birds. There is an interesting story that dates to the 1840s. At this time there was a boundary dispute between Maine and New Brunswick in which Maine acquired more land than New Brunswick. Legend states that a member of the Assembly, Lawrence O'Conner Doyle, knocked the heads off eleven of these birds thinking they were American Bald Eagles. In fact, they are the British Eagles, so Mr. Doyle did his country a disservice. Ironically, Mr. Doyle later moved to New York and remained there until he died.
Above the frames around some of the windows in the private offices on the second floor of Province House are headless birds. There is an interesting story that dates to the 1840s. At this time there was a boundary dispute between Maine and New Brunswick in which Maine acquired more land than New Brunswick. Legend states that a member of the Assembly, Lawrence O'Conner Doyle, knocked the heads off eleven of these birds thinking they were American Bald Eagles. In fact, they are the British Eagles, so Mr. Doyle did his country a disservice. Ironically, Mr. Doyle later moved to New York and remained there until he died.
RED CHAMBER
This is the only room in Province House in which there has been no significant change since the building's completion in 1818. From that year until 1928, the Red Chamber served as the seat of the Legislative Council, which was an Upper House or Senate for the Province of Nova Scotia, (in Nova Scotia the members of the Legislative Council were appointed to their posts). On May 31, 1928 Nova Scotia abolished it's Legislative Council and in January, 1969, with the departure of the Legislative Council in the Prince of Quebec, all ten Canadian Provinces became unicameral, that is, their parliaments consist of one house. Before the abolition of the Upper House the Lieutenant Governor delivered the Speech from the Throne in this Chamber, at the opening of the Legislature. Charles Dickens was present on just such an occasion during a brief visit to Halifax in 1841 when Joseph Howe, the Speaker, persuaded him to visit Province House. Later he reported in American Notes that the opening "was just like looking at Westminster through the wrong end of a telescope."
RED CHAMBER
This is the only room in Province House in which there has been no significant change since the building's completion in 1818. From that year until 1928, the Red Chamber served as the seat of the Legislative Council, which was an Upper House or Senate for the Province of Nova Scotia, (in Nova Scotia the members of the Legislative Council were appointed to their posts). On May 31, 1928 Nova Scotia abolished it's Legislative Council and in January, 1969, with the departure of the Legislative Council in the Prince of Quebec, all ten Canadian Provinces became unicameral, that is, their parliaments consist of one house. Before the abolition of the Upper House the Lieutenant Governor delivered the Speech from the Throne in this Chamber, at the opening of the Legislature. Charles Dickens was present on just such an occasion during a brief visit to Halifax in 1841 when Joseph Howe, the Speaker, persuaded him to visit Province House. Later he reported in American Notes that the opening "was just like looking at Westminster through the wrong end of a telescope."